BLM's London office is in disarray after its founder quit unexpectedly.

The head of the insurance litigation firm's London office, partner Jennette Newman, resigned last week alongside fellow London partner Jonathan Edwards. Sources told RollOnFriday that the pair were both placed on gardening leave immediately. The shock exit means the firm currently has no London boss, mirroring the unexpected departure four months ago of the Managing Partner, who also left BLM before any replacement was in place.

Meanwhile, RollOnFriday has discovered that a second charge has been taken over BLM's assets. HSBC took the charge on 2 November. It comes on top of the charge in favour of Barclays dating from September 2014.

But despite appearances this is all good news, or a least it is according to BLM. A spokeswoman told RollOnFriday, “Off the back of a strengthened balance sheet and falling debt, we made a decision to review our banking arrangements". As a result, in addition to Barclays, "we’re pleased to say that we’re also being backed by HSBC, which is testament to our strong financial position". 

BLM's lobby art is a touch on the nose* *(not BLM's actual lobby art)

Some commentators were less than kind. One asked, "who are they kidding?". Another mused, "I am so happy that two banks value my home so much that they are both willing to put charges over it. It has nothing at all to do with my inability to bring in enough money to service my debts, or my mad ambitions. And yes, two key members of my family are moving out because they are fed up of the leaky roof, but don't worry, me, my mad grandparents and 6 cats still live here. Everything is fine. It's all fine".

Newman and Edwards have both left to join Clyde & Co. Hinting at behind-the-scenes tensions, BLM's valedictory message omitted the usual platitudes about the duo's great work for the firm and best wishes for their future, stating instead that, "We’re in the process of electing a London office head” for what is a "thriving location".