Heller Ehrman appeared on the brink of dissolution Wednesday, with some partners already looking to move with what amounted to tacit approval from firm management.

In office meetings on Wednesday, partners were told that dissolution is one of several options facing the 119-year-old firm, a Heller partner said. As a result, management said it was understood that partners would begin talking to other firms, and several individuals and groups have already begun talks, sources said.