Now we have some tragic information to report from China, the place an achieved Biglaw associate is suspected to have died by suicide.
In keeping with Law.com International, Brian Schwarzwalder, 54, a company associate in Gibson Dunn’s Hong Kong workplace, reportedly took his personal life earlier this week. As famous by the South China Morning Put up, police have categorized because the dying as “individual fallen from a peak.” Regulation.com has further data on his premature dying:
Schwarzwalder’s physique was reportedly discovered within the early hours of August 5, 2025, throughout a extreme rainstorm on Kennedy Highway within the Mid-Ranges—an prosperous residential space within the metropolis. He was licensed lifeless by paramedics on the scene, the stories mentioned.
His physique was recognized by his home helper, following which a suicide observe was additionally discovered, native stories mentioned.
A memoriam passage on Schwarzwalder’s firm bio now reads as follows: “Brian was a beloved member of the Gibson Dunn neighborhood. At this tough time, our ideas are together with his household, in addition to with the various colleagues who labored with Brian through the years. He will probably be significantly missed.”
When you or somebody you realize is depressed and in need assistance, please name the Nationwide Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or a lawyer assistance program in your state (don’t be fooled by the title; these applications additionally present companies to regulation college students). Bear in mind that you’re beloved, so please attain out should you want help.
We right here at Above the Regulation prolong our condolences to Brian Schwarzwalder’s household, associates, and colleagues throughout this extraordinarily difficult time.
Gibson Dunn Hong Kong Corporate Partner Dies in Suspected Suicide [Law.com International]

Staci Zaretsky is the managing editor of Above the Regulation, the place she’s labored since 2011. She’d love to listen to from you, so please be at liberty to email her with any ideas, questions, feedback, or critiques. You may observe her on Bluesky, X/Twitter, and Threads, or join along with her on LinkedIn.