Baker McKenzie has imposed sanctions on a partner who was accused of sexual assault, multiple reports from the UK have revealed.
The unnamed partner is alleged to have invited several associates, including the female victim, back to his hotel room after an event. The incident, which happened years ago, was “relatively minor,” one of the reports said.
However, the firm’s leadership team was made aware of the incident and they decided to settle the issue for a “significant” amount. The agreement is said to include a confidentiality agreement and the female associate leaving the firm. The partner is said to have remained at the firm and has since been promoted.
“We take any allegations of inappropriate behaviour or misconduct extremely seriously. This incident occurred several years ago and was reported by our HR team at the time. The firm treated the allegation very seriously and immediately carried out a thorough investigation, including obtaining both external and internal advice. On completion of the investigation, the firm imposed sanctions on the partner concerned,” a Baker McKenzie spokesman said in a statement.
“A confidential settlement was then reached with the employee, which we are not in a position to discuss. Our code of business conduct reflects the values of our organisation, and we expect all of our people, whether partners or employees, to abide by the principles and standards of behaviour set out in that code,” the spokesman said.
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