Linklaters to connect diversity and inclusion to billable hours

Reading time: one minute

Magic circle firm Linklaters LLP has informed its lawyers this week that contributions made towards diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) can count as chargeable time.

From 1 November 2022, DE&I contributions will be considered for performance bonus purposes as the firm-wide policy aims to recognise and reward individual contributions.

The move comes after around 150 law firms are making a similar move in the US firms in 2021, according to the Diversity Lab. The policy at Linklaters is dependent on office location and up to 100 hours of DE&I contributions could be considered as billable time.  

Aedamar Comiskey, senior partner and chair at Linklaters, commented: “Being a diverse, equitable and inclusive firm is integral to our strategy and remains at the heart of our culture and values. This policy recognises the efforts of individuals across our Linklaters network who help to cultivate our inclusive culture and, in doing so, help to attract the best people and the best clients.”

This decision is in line with the Law Society’s publication of a new diversity and inclusion framework, which suggested including this factor in performance and appraisal discussions.