Dykema Cuts 17 Attorneys, 30 Staff [Correction]

This week, big law firm layoffs are back. Dykema, which according to a JDJournal tipster has laid off at least 20 lawyers and 30 staff since November, this month let go 17 attorneys and 30 staff, in what appears to be a separate round of cuts., has confirmed that 17 attorneys and 30 staff have been let go since November 2008.

Severance packages were offered. The layoffs were blamed on the economy.

Dykema Gossett PLLC is a law firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1926, the firm has offices across the United States, including Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC. It currently employs over 450 lawyers and lobbying professionals. With the 2008 acquisition of 53 lawyers from the now-defunct Schwartz Cooper, Dykema’s largest office is now in Chicago.

UPDATE

The following statement is from firm chairman Rex Schlaybaugh:

Given the current market conditions, which have affected virtually every industry across the nation, we made the difficult decision to reduce our lawyer ranks by 17 and our staff population by 30 nationally. The firm has provided those who are leaving with severance benefits during this difficult time. This reduction is based on the economic climate. Dykema has a strong and conservative balance sheet, but it is essential that we protect and maintain that strength. The firms that are most effectively managed during tough times will not only survive but will emerge stronger.