Husch Blackwell was named today by Working Mother magazine as one of the 2017 “Best Law Firms for Women” in recognition of its practices related to the retention and promotion of women lawyers. The annual list recognizes 50 U.S. law firms for their policies in the advancement of women and for the implementation of work-life balance initiatives.
The firm was selected partially for its support of flexible and remote scheduling and its moves to support the advancement of women to equity partnership. The firm’s alternative work schedule policy encourages attorneys (both women and men) to request flexible schedules or remote work rather than leave the firm or the practice of law.
“At Husch Blackwell, we understand that the ability of our attorneys, particularly our female attorneys, to structure and manage their work arrangements allows us to be a stronger, better firm,” said Chris Miller, partner and Chair of the firm’s Diversity Council. “We encourage attorneys to propose work arrangements that meet their individual needs, whatever they may be. The policies and practices we’ve developed have helped us retain talented and committed attorneys, which, in turn, has helped us offer superior service and value to our clients.”
Approximately 53 percent of the firm’s associates are women, and the firm has women in prominent leadership roles, including:
In addition to being named to the Working Mother “50 Best Law Firms for Women” list, Husch Blackwell counts the following efforts and honors as indicators of its commitment to diversity and flexibility in the workplace:
- A perfect score of 100 percent from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation on its 2017 Corporate Equality Index earned the firm the distinction of being among the “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality.”
- A dedicated firmwide program—True North—encourages the firm’s women lawyers and clients to explore professional growth and build relationships.
- Husch Blackwell University, our intensive leadership development program for junior partners, includes discussions about the unique challenges that female partners face.
“Diversity is a core value of our firm,” said Husch Blackwell Chairman Maurice Watson. “Our investment in creating an inclusive workplace removes barriers to personal achievement and ultimately drives higher levels of professional engagement and gratification.”
The full list of the 2017 Working Mother Best Law Firms for Women features highlights on representation of women and women of color in key leadership roles, and usage and promotion rates for reduced-hour lawyers, among other key points.