A slowdown in business in Maine has led the Pierce Atwood law firm to lay off seven attorneys and 14 staff members at offices in Portland, Augusta and Portsmouth, N.H., the company said today.

The uncertain economy is forcing the firm to assess where business demand is likely to be off this year, according to Gloria Pinza, managing partner.

At the same time, Pierce Atwood is looking to add five lawyers at its offices in Boston and Providence, R.I., to support national and regional growth strategies.

The firm has 129 lawyers and 114 support staff in its total operation.

Copyright 2008 Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.