The firm has promised to focus on the legal staff and their employment, but that is still cold comfort for those being laid off.
Unfortunately, this story will probably be heard time and again as the economy worsens. What, then, can legal staffers do when the firm they work for goes under?
The first thing to do is to realize that all is not lost. There is still work out there.
Even though Heller is gone, most of the firm's attorneys — and that's 750 attorneys in total — will find work somewhere else. And most of them will need staff support.
So tip number one is to keep in touch with your associates at the firm. Some will get hired quickly, and perhaps they can help you out.
Tip two is networking. Most legal staffers know other staffers from other firms, and those acquaintances can be an incredible resource. After all, legal staffers know more about what is going on than most of the attorneys at a firm anyway.
So call up your friends at the other firms out there. They will be sympathetic and perhaps will know of some good resources.
Third, look at the legal job boards. Sites like LawCrossing also track legal staffing jobs, and there are always plenty being posted. Getting in early will help your chances, because there will probably be a flood of resumes soon.
Speaking of companies, don't forget the legal departments at large corporations. They also need legal staff, and that is an area that not many think of when they think of legal staffers. Many of the large corporate legal departments have lots of attorneys, and some paralegal or legal secretary work is likely available as well.
It may be hard out there these days, but there are still plenty of options. And don't forget the silver lining: When you leave because the firm dissolved, it means you weren't fired and didn't quit. So, there shouldn't be any uncomfortable questions about why you're looking for a new job.
Good luck!
