According to The Wall Street Journal, "Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP, on Friday said that 45 partners have been asked to leave or accept other positions there as part of a restructuring".

According to thier own web site, Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP is among the largest law practices in the world, with more than 1,500 lawyers operating in 14 major cities worldwide including London, Frankfurt, Paris, Chicago, New York, Washington D.C. and Hong Kong.

Punchline:  I am not shocked that a law firm would cull its herd of partners but most do so discretely offering assistance to those affected to keep organic appearances.  This sudden and public move sends a message that is less than positive.  Why?

The story requires a subscription: Mayer Fires, Demotes 45 Partners