Italy's Elite Law Firms to Reopen as Nation Eases Lockdown Restrictions

BonelliErede is among Italy’s elite crop of firms preparing to reopen offices in Milan on Monday, as the country moves into the second phase of its lockdown measures.

The Italian government will begin a phased easing of lockdown restrictions from Monday, with visitation of nearby family members, outdoor exercise and funerals, among other things, being permitted.

In light of this staggered lift, partner and executive director Andrea Carta Mantiglia said Bonelli will reopen on Monday but the firm is “strongly recommending our people to stay at home and continue with smart working”.

Limited space in the Milan office has been prepared for only 10% of staff to come in, with a system in place for staff to book a day in advance.

“We will provide masks and temperatures will be measured at the entrance. If it is over 37, you won’t be allowed in. There will also be stringent measures of how staff can move around in the office – most of the space will not be available”.

Another Bonelli partner said a 30-page manual of safety procedures has been drafted to “cover the complexities”.

The partner added that, despite no real pressure from clients to reopen, they are keen to go back in because “40% of what I usually do is practically impossible [from home]“.

Amid economic pressures stemming from the pandemic, Bonelli has also delayed its partner promotion process, opting to start discussions in June or July, as well as freezing associate pay raises for 2020.

Meanwhile, fellow elite firm Chiomenti is also expecting to reopen on Monday, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. The person said that a “strict protocol in line with healthcare authorities’ recommendations” will also be in place.

U.K.-headquartered firm Bird & Bird will also reopen its office in Milan on Monday, with a partner stating that “the opening will not be on full speed” as there is “no reason to have our offices fully packed from Monday”.

Bonelli’s Carta Mantiglia expects that several other firms will more or less do the same, opening on a very limited basis from Monday.

Last month, Italian lawyers told Law.com that small law firms and sole practitioners in the region were most likely to be significantly impacted by the pandemic.

“I’m not sure how sophisticated they are and whether they are able to adapt to this new world where we’re forced to work remotely,” said a lawyer in the region. 

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