Global law firm Ogletree Deakins has announced a new Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Hours Policy to provide “billable hours credit” for attorneys who participate in internal and external projects that advance DE&I.
Through this policy, Ogletree Deakins attorneys can earn up to 50 hours towards their annual billable hour target. DE&I projects that qualify for this programme include leadership positions and other active involvement within the firm’s Business Resource Groups, diversity-specific bar associations and committees, and legal associations with the identified goal of advancing diversity in the legal profession. Representing the firm at diversity-based job fairs and other DE&I-specific recruiting events is also approved under the new policy.
STRONG DIVERSITY & INCLUSION COMMITMNT
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion and fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment where people can thrive professionally,” stated Matt Keen, Managing Shareholder of Ogletree Deakins. “Our DE&I policy supports and encourages engagement in activities that further DE&I at the firm and in the legal profession in a meaningful way.”
This policy is the latest step in Ogletree Deakins’ mission to promote diversity and inclusion, both internally and externally. In 2020, the firm launched Ogletree Deakins Act (Act, Change, and Transform) with a goal of taking immediate action to foster racial equality by focusing on voter education and leave, criminal justice reform, and local office and client initiatives. The leadership group comprises members from all sectors of the firm, including the Board of Directors, the C-Suite, administrative support teams and attorneys.
Sign up for our newsletter
