Magic Circle firm Clifford Chance has terminated an unnamed partner in its Perth, Australia, office after allegations of “serious misconduct” came to light. As reported by RollOnFriday, at least five individuals came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct including claims the partner was trading “advancement and promotion in return for sexual favours.”
According to the firm, the partner was immediately suspended after this behavior was brought to its attention and an investigation was launched. A firm spokesperson said the result of said investigation was the partner’s termination.
Firm leaders appear to be taking the matter very seriously, and the partner’s actions have been reported to local authorities. Global Managing Partner Charles Adams said, “We deeply regret what happened and that our colleagues were affected. We’ve offered and continue to make available our full support to these colleagues. I want to thank them for speaking up and to reassure everyone at the firm of our commitment to a workplace where they are respected, and where misconduct of any kind is completely unacceptable, and will be robustly addressed.”
Additionally, Clifford Chance hired sex discrimination and workplace consultants to advise on “high-level strategic analysis, assessment, advice, and planning” in order to “strengthen their workplace culture.”
Kathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, host of The Jabot podcast, and co-host of Thinking Like A Lawyer. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter @Kathryn1 or Mastodon @[email protected].