Covington & Burling's formal Alternative Work Schedules program allows any attorney to cut his or her hours by up to 40% and still remain eligible for promotion.

Having a flexible schedule has afforded Nora Gibson, a partner at this law firm, the best of both worlds. “It allows me to take my children to school and be home to hear about their day, while still feeling intellectually fulfilled by my work,” she explains. For Miriam Guggenheim, who made partner here on a part-time schedule, working fewer hours “seemed to be a non-issue.” Hoping to encourage other women to follow their bliss—whether that be spending more time with family or completing a college degree—the firm promotes its formal Alternative Work Schedules program, which allows any attorney to cut his or her hours by up to 40% and still remain eligible for promotion. Those who need insight into how to structure the arrangement or plan out their careers can consult with the partners who serve as mentors, ombudspersons and alternative scheduling advisors in every office.

Female Equity Partners 21%

Lawyers Working Reduced Hours 8%

 

Pictured: Anne Lee with Nina, 1; Jennifer Whitfield with Violet, 1; James Garland with James, 4, and Annabelle, 2.