MENTORING MUSCLE A Maternity Mentoring program pairs lawyers who are expectant first-time moms with a working-mom partner or senior associate to talk about issues such as preparing for maternity leave and creating a workable schedule upon return.

FLEX IT A revamped flex policy includes an advisor to help lawyers create a schedule using options such as flexible full-time, reduced hours and telecommuting. Attorneys who opt for flexibility remain eligible for partnership.

TAKE LEAVE After three months of paid maternity leave, a phase-in program automatically allows a new mother to return to work gradually over the next three months, working part-time and building up to a full-time schedule. Additionally, lawyers caring for ill family members can take up to 12 weeks of leave at full pay.

LEADERSHIP Almost 25% of the lawyers who sit on the firm’s committees are women. One woman serves on the 14-member management committee, while nine sit on the 44-member associate compensation committee.

BEST PRACTICES An external advisory board meets biannually with firm leadership to recommend ways to promote advancement of women lawyers. Board members also serve as mentors to female attorneys, offering advice on topics such as business development and client management,

Female nonequity partners  N/A
Female equity partners  17%
Female lawyers promoted to nonequity partner, 2003–07  N/A
Female lawyers promoted to equity partner, 2003–07  18%
Lawyers working reduced hours  7%
Weeks paid maternity leave  12