against partners at his former firm.

Mr. Falconer's contract with the firm was terminated by the partners before it merged last December with Hallett, Whitney & Patton to become Cox, Hallett & Wilkinson.

Lawyer David Kessaram of Cox, Hallett & Wilkinson said the suit concerned a "simple employment dispute''.

Mr. Falconer filed the suit against Mr. Kessaram, Harry Kessaram, Kim White and Justin Williams. Mr. Falconer joined Cox & Wilkinson in 1996 to work in the firm's commercial department.