It is customary when a large business calls it a day to seek out lessons from that fate. So what is there to take from the turmoil that has engulfed Howrey over the last 18 months if, as seems likely, the firm this week elects to start winding down its business?

For one, it has to be said that the firm will have plenty of company. Brobeck Phleger & Harrison, Altheimer & Gray, Coudert Brothers, Testa Hurwitz & Thibeault, Thacher Proffitt & Wood, Thelen, Heller Ehrman – all have passed into the night since 2003.