Holland & Knight has been named among the Best Law Firms for Women and Diversity by Seramount, a strategic professional services and research firm dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. The annual list recognizes firms that use best practices in recruiting, retaining, promoting and developing women lawyers and lawyers from underrepresented groups, including people of color.
"We're honored to once again be recognized by Seramount for our ongoing efforts to create a professional environment that supports the growth of all of our attorneys," said Tricia DeLeon, chair of Holland & Knight's Women's Initiative. "It is gratifying to see family-friendly policies increasing across the industry. Our firm is committed to leading progress on that front."
"Our Best Law Firms for Women and Diversity demonstrate unwavering commitment, despite the uncertainties in the legal field," said Subha V. Barry, president of Seramount. "I'm proud of the steady and positive change they are driving, even if it's a gradual process. I applaud these industry leaders for their dedication to cultivating inclusive firm cultures."
Highlights of the 2024 Best Law Firms for Women and Diversity:
Representation: 42% of lawyers are women, same as last year; 24% of lawyers are people of color, up from 23% last year; 33% of lawyers hired are people of color, down from 34% last year.
Advancement: The percentage of women promoted to equity partner is 41%, up from 39% last year; the percentage of people of color promoted to equity partner is 22%, up from 17% last year.
Benefits: 89% of firms offer backup childcare, up from 84% last year; 89% reimburse for in vitro fertilization, up from 80% last year; 80% reimburse for egg freezing, up from 66% last year.
Seramount's 2024 Best Law Firms for Women and Diversity application includes 648 questions about attorney demographics at different levels, flexibility, paid time off and parental leaves, and development and retention of women and people of color, as well as those from other underrepresented groups. Questions about family-friendly benefits and mentoring and sponsorship participation are also included.
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