If a berating boss at law firm goes from “senior partner” to “counsel,” is he no longer in charge, and therefore can’t yell at employees?

Question

Let’s say he’s the founder of a firm in which his name is first in the name of employer. But then due to a fight with one of the partners which led to a legal battle, the firm splits and starts two new firms. The founder’s title at the new firm is “counsel,” as his photo/profile on the firm’s website, is located at the bottom of the staff. Although, the new firm is still under his name, and ONLY his name. What does that mean in terms of his authority, considering he made his employees cry at the previous firm where his title was “senior partner.”

Anonymous · Answer

He shouldn't be yelling at employees at all or making them cry.  It's unprofessional behavior on his part and this is why we need to push everyone into college, folks!

Maxi · Answer

Already asked and answered........... no he owns the new firm, not along with other people like the old firm

n2mama · Answer

The original firm split, and the new firm he started may not have partners, which is why his title changed. That doesn’t mean he still isn’t in charge, doesn’t mean he has lost authority, and doesn’t mean he won’t still be a jerk. If you are employed at his firm, you probably should have gone with the other firm started by the other former partner.

? · Answer

He might still yell at employees, but he is no longer part of the management team.  It's unlikely that you would see him in the office very often.  Since the company still bears his name, they need to keep him on the letterhead even though he might not perform any services.

A Hunch · Answer

There are two firms now:
Firm A & B = the firms have nothing to do with each other.

Since the new firm is solely HIS.  He can do whatever he wants including making employees cry.

If a berating boss at law firm goes from “senior partner” to “counsel,” is he no longer in charge, and therefore can’t yell at employees?

5 Answers