In 2006 Dechert was facing a potentially budget-busting task: During the next 18 months, it would need to relocate its three largest offices. Capital expenses were expected to skyrocket from single-digit percentages to a third of annual earnings.
But instead of turning to a bank loan to cover the cost of the moves and gut renovations, the firm went to its partners. For three years before the moves, partners kicked in more capital, producing a surge in cash on Dechert’s balance sheet. The firm didn’t have to borrow a penny.
