Global law firm Baker McKenzie has terminated the services of former counsel Stefano Mariani, who has been accused of sexual misconduct by a former junior colleague at law firm Deacons, where Mariani was previously a partner and head of tax.

A source close to the matter confirmed that Baker McKenzie and Mariani had decided to part ways “a while back” when the firm discovered that the lawyer was alleged to have coercively controlled and sexually assaulted a former colleague while they both worked at Deacons.

When hiring Mariani in June this year, Baker McKenzie conducted a background check on Mariani as per standard procedure, but nothing relating to any allegations of sexual misconduct was conveyed to or discussed with the firm, the source said.

Baker McKenzie did not officially comment on the case on the basis that legal proceedings are ongoing.

According to RollOnFriday, Mariani is due in Hong Kong court over allegations that he abused his position as a partner to gain sexual favours from a junior colleague, including instances of assault and sexual harassment.

A Deacons spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.