In a controversial move, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is facing a significant upheaval within its ranks. Following a contentious $100 pro bono agreement with Donald Trump, the firm's West Coast operations have seen a mass departure of attorneys, prompting a desperate strategy to retain its remaining talent.

Approximately 20 lawyers have already left the San Francisco office for competitor firm Cooley, signaling a clear dissatisfaction with Willkie Farr’s recent decisions. In response, the firm has implemented a dual strategy of staff layoffs coupled with the offer of substantial retention bonuses for certain associates.

Sources close to the firm revealed that last week, a paralegal, a billing assistant, two secretaries, and the office manager were laid off from the San Francisco office. Concurrently, Willkie Farr began offering "generous" retention bonuses to its first and second-year summer associates as well as other associates within the Bay Area. The bonuses, reportedly around $35,000, are designed to encourage loyalty and commitment among new and returning talent. However, the strategy has not been entirely successful.

Despite these financial incentives, at least two 2L summer associates have opted to join Cooley's litigation team, and most 1L summer associates have decided against returning to Willkie for their 2L summer, choosing other firms instead. This broad rejection reflects a significant disapproval of the firm's alignment with Trump, which has tarnished its reputation among its younger cohort.

The legal community watches closely as Willkie's attempts to stabilize its workforce appear to be faltering. The firm's reputation, once robust, now hangs in a delicate balance as it navigates through these turbulent times. The impact of these decisions on Willkie Farr’s future in the competitive legal market remains to be seen as the firm strives to retain its standing and rebuild trust among its workforce.

For those affected by layoffs or if you have information regarding changes in other firms, you are encouraged to reach out with information. Additionally, signing up for ATL's Layoff Alerts provides immediate updates on such critical developments in the legal sector.