Law firm dumps Catholic Church after 60 years, but won't say why
It comes amid growing tensions within the legal fraternity over the balance between social responsibility and commercial imperatives. The decision to cut ties with the church also raises questions about the future of prominent partner Richard Leder, who served articles at the firm in 1988, and has worked on behalf of the Catholic Church for 30 years. Corrs Chambers Westgarth Partner Richard Leder. Credit: Justin McManus Leder did not return calls from Era, but several friends and associates confirmed that he was considering his options and had received interest from other companies. “He is highly respected. What people ask is, ‘If you’re leaving, and a client is coming with you, then we’d like to chat,’” said an old friend. The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne declined to confirm whether they would remain with Leder or seek legal representation elsewhere. “Richard Leder is still a partner at Corrs Chambers Westgarth and we have great respect for him and his team. We are working thr