Tis' the season: Wisconsin law firms trim plans.

Byline: Jack Zemlicka

With sounds of the season already invading local radio stations, annual holiday office parties are inevitably in the planning stage.

But given the economic climate, some law firms are scaling back or eliminating end-of-the year gatherings altogether.

I think we're sensitive to the fact that many clients and folks in general may not have the happiest of holiday seasons, said Lon E. Roberts, managing partner of Ruder Ware LLSC.

The Wausau firm traditionally throws a modest holiday party for employees after the first of the year, but Roberts said that may change this season.

This year we may well omit it completely, said Roberts.

The same is true at Madison firm Murphy Desmond, which has typically sponsored a year-end gathering for employees.

I think a lot more people are putting that to the wayside than in the past, said firm marketing director Amy M. Gores.

Some firms that are continuing their holiday traditions are being more conservative.

For example, Milwaukee IP firm Boyle Fredrickson will be having its employee party at the historic Ambassador Hotel downtown, after holding it at the Harley Davidson Museum last year.

The gathering will be more reserved, said attorney Matthew E. Corr.

Prices probably had something to do with it, and maybe we get two different hors d'oeuvres instead of three, he said.

Weiss Berzowski Brady LLP is also going forward with modest holiday plans, according to managing partner Michael M. Berzowski.

Historically, the firm has sponsored employee gatherings at the Mitchell Park Domes and Charles Allis Art Museum in Milwaukee.

They are nice, but not elaborate, he said.

Some firms that are scaling back are finding alternate ways to celebrate the season.

Roberts said that Ruder Ware is providing gifts to employees and donating to local charities.

Murphy Desmond is contributing to several charitable organizations this year as an alternative to purchasing client gifts.

We did budget for some client gifts, but instead of purchasing material items, we're spending that...