This joint letter is used to inform clients that the attorney who has handled the client's legal matters with the firm is withdrawing from the firm. It presents the client with the options of remaining with the present firm, transferring its files to the attorney's new firm, or choosing representation by an entirely different firm. The letter is signed by the managing partner and the partner who is withdrawing from the firm.
Title: New York Joint Letter Announcing Partner Withdrawal from the Firm — A Comprehensive Guide Introduction: In the vibrant legal landscape of New York, it is not uncommon for law firms to experience partner withdrawals. To ensure transparency and maintain professional relationships, joint letters announcing partner withdrawals are often sent to clients. In this article, we will provide a detailed description of what a New York Joint Letter Announcing Partner Withdrawal from the Firm entails, including its importance, key components, and various types. Key Components of the Joint Letter: 1. Salutation and Opening: The joint letter begins by addressing the clients in a respectful and professional manner. It typically includes a polite greeting, followed by acknowledging the partnership's individual involvement with the client and their gratitude for their trust. 2. Announcement of Partner Withdrawal: Next, the joint letter explicitly states the reason for the partner's departure, which could range from retirement, career change, or personal reasons. It should convey a sense of certainty, ensuring clients that the withdrawal is amicable and does not reflect any weaknesses within the firm. 3. Brief Partner Background: To enhance transparency and reassure clients, a brief overview of the departing partner's accomplishments, expertise, and contributions to the firm is often included. This serves to reinforce clients' confidence in the firm's ability to manage the departure and maintain high-quality legal services. 4. Transition Plan: If applicable, the joint letter outlines a transition plan to minimize disruption and ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities to other partners or attorneys within the firm. This section highlights the firm's commitment to maintaining continuity of service and meeting clients' needs throughout the transition period. 5. Contact Information: To facilitate ongoing communication, the joint letter provides clients with updated contact information for the remaining partners or assigned attorneys responsible for their cases. This helps clients feel reassured that their legal matters will continue to receive the attention and expertise they deserve. Types of Joint Letters Announcing Partner Withdrawal: 1. Retirement Announcement: This type of joint letter announces a partner's retirement from the firm. It typically emphasizes the partner's long-standing commitment, highlights their numerous contributions, and offers gratitude for their dedicated service. 2. Career Change Announcement: When a partner decides to pursue a career change outside the firm, a joint letter of this nature is crafted. It focuses on the partner's new opportunities, their notable achievements while at the firm, and conveys confidence in the firm's continued success. 3. Personal Reasons Announcement: In some cases, a partner may withdraw due to personal reasons such as health issues, family obligations, or relocation. This type of joint letter conveys understanding and support for the partner's decision, while reassuring clients that the firm will adjust and continue providing excellent legal services. Conclusion: Joint letters announcing partner withdrawals from New York law firms are essential for maintaining transparent and professional relationships with clients. By encompassing key components like salutation, withdrawal announcement, partner background, transition plan, and contact information, these letters effectively navigate the challenges associated with partner departures. Whether it is a retirement, career change, or personal reasons, such joint letters ensure clients remain confident in the firm's ability to handle the transition while upholding exceptional legal services.