November.13.2012
Orrick has been named as one of the 2012 Working Mother and Flex-Time Lawyers “50 Best Law Firms for Women” for the fourth time in its latest survey. This annual list recognizes law firms for their family-friendly policies and business development initiatives in retaining women and advancing them into the leadership pipeline, and gives others the benchmarking tools needed to improve the status of women at their firms. Among other criteria, firms were evaluated based on the percentage of female equity and non-equity partners and the percentage of lawyers working reduced hours.
Founded in 2003, Orrick's Women's Initiative supports the professional development needs of its women lawyers by, among other things, educating and informing all the firm's lawyers about issues impacting women in the practice of law. Orrick offers a number of programs and policies to recruit, promote and retain its women lawyers including its women's committee, women's affinity group, Parents' Forum, alternative work schedule policy, on-ramping program, paid membership in diverse professional associations, and sponsorship of and participation in women-focused seminars.
Carol Evans, president of Working Mother Media, says, “Nearly one third of women lawyers are leaving the legal workforce independent of maternity leave. The Working Mother and Flex-Time Lawyers 50 Best Law Firms for Women have led the way in creating new models for the rest of their profession in promoting women and developing more generous work life policies. These firms deserve recognition for working to improve women’s advancement and to equalize their compensation and access to business development.”
“Orrick is honored to once again be recognized as a firm that is dedicated to supporting the women who contribute to its success,” said Karen Johnson-McKewan, co-head of Orrick's Women's Initiative. "Being named to the Best Law Firm for Women list inspires Orrick to continue initiating innovative and effective ways to help our female lawyers reach their full professional potential.”
Firms will be featured in the December/January issue of Working Mother magazine.