Can Law Firm Partners Sue for Employment Discrimination?

Traditionally, law firms were organized as "true partnerships" in which each partner had a substantial voice in firm affairs and could be subjected to unlimited liability for the debts of the firm. As high-profile cases have highlighted the risks of such a structure, however, many firms have abandoned the classic form and adopted "hybrid" business models such as professional corporations, limited liability companies and limited liability partnerships. Such consolidation of control comes at a cost, however. By configuring themselves as "de facto corporations" - placing substantial control in the hands of a few and subjecting the remaining partners to the decisions of those in power - firms may expose themselves to employment discrimination suits brought by their own partners.

13 minute read February 01, 2004 at 02:50 PM

By

Wayne N. Outten And Justin M. Swartz