Philadelphia-Based Law Firm Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis to Dissolve After Nearly 90 Years in Business.
Philadelphia-based law firm Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis announced on Thursday its decision to dissolve after serving clients for almost a century. The 91-lawyer firm stated that it will ensure uninterrupted service to clients as it initiates the winding-down process. The firm’s equity partnership is expected to vote on the wind-down plan before the following Wednesday, according to Leslie Corwin, a Duane Morris lawyer assisting Schnader in the dissolution process.
With offices in Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, New York, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, and Wilmington, Schnader Harrison also operated in Jakarta through an association with Indonesian law firm Yang & Co.
“We are committed to supporting our attorneys and staff during this transition, exploring relocation opportunities for them. Many of our attorneys have already been presented with such prospects,” the firm stated in a press release without elaborating on specific future plans.
The firm’s general counsel, Keith Whitson, refrained from commenting on the reasons for the dissolution but assured that they plan to manage the wind-down without resorting to bankruptcy.
Leslie Corwin, who previously dealt with the break-ups of other law firms, including WolfBlock and Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, is advising Schnader during this process.
Founded in 1934 by former Pennsylvania Attorney General William Schnader, the firm’s roots date back to a time when Schnader, Bernard Segal, and Francis Lewis established Schnader & Lewis. The firm’s legacy includes playing key roles in landmark events such as the civil rights movement, the creation of the state of Israel, and the development of the Uniform Commercial Code.
Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis expressed pride in their advocacy for justice, free speech, voting rights, human rights, immigrant rights, and prisoner rights before numerous prominent tribunals over the years.