ABA Journal Reports on Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Polsinelli

Sept. 19, 2023 – The American Bar Association (ABA) Journal reports on a lawsuit by Brewer client Julia Rix against Polsinelli, accusing the firm and two of its partners of sexual harassment. According to the article, “A former international corporate attorney at Polsinelli has alleged that she experienced ‘callous gaslighting’ and retaliation by the law firm when she complained about sexual harassment by two influential senior partners.”

The article continues, “In a $20 million lawsuit filed Sept. 15, plaintiff Julia I. Rix said she was ‘repeatedly hounded’ by the two male partners who wanted her to join them for after-hours drinks and hotel meetings. She was also forced ‘to endure salacious comments about her appearance’ and subjected to an unwanted kiss in ‘one sordid episode,’ the suit alleges.” As reported, Rix’s suit, filed in Washington, D.C., civil court, alleges breach of contract, violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, violations of Washington, D.C., human rights law, and infliction of emotional distress.

Brewer partner William A. Brewer III said in a statement to the ABA Journal: “Like many other women in the legal industry, our client claims she was subjected to unwanted sexual harassment at the hands of senior leaders in the firm. Our client believes that Polsinelli not only failed to protect her but revictimized her by failing to properly investigate her allegations. When our client bravely stepped forward to report the abuse she endured, she claims the firm did the unimaginable: immediately terminated her employment. She filed this matter to lay bare a culture of harassment that has victimized many in the workplace and has been intentionally shielded from public view. That ends today.”

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Law 360 Interviews Will Brewer on Impacts of ABA Opinion

June 20, 2023 -- Law360 quoted Brewer, Attorneys & Counselors Senior Associate Will Brewer in an article about recent American Bar Association guidance that outlines the role of non-attorneys in client intake.

The ethics opinion states that in regards to client intake, paralegals can collect basic information, handle conflict checks, identify if the matter is in an attorney’s specialty area, answer questions about fees and representation, and collect a client’s signature. Brewer said that he hopes the opinion encourages firms to keep lawyers involved in the client onboarding process.

"Our philosophy has always been to have our lawyers in the pivot — directing retention efforts, client activities and the pursuit of every positive outcome," Brewer said.

Brewer also commented, “Everything is custom-designed, depending on the needs of the client.” He added, "at our firm, attorneys are ultimately responsible. They provide oversight and direction — managing the process from the beginning. We view that commitment as an investment in our professionalism and client service.”