Biglaw, Perks / Fringe Benefits, Pregnancy / Paternity

Simpson Thacher Raises to... 18 Weeks!

By  
on

We recently started a discussion about maternity leave policies at large law firms. Shortly thereafter, one such firm — Simpson Thacher & Bartlett — made changes to its maternity leave policy.
From a tipster (and confirmed for us by James Cross, co-chair of the firm’s personnel committee):

Simpson just announced a 50% increase in the paid time off for maternity leave (increased from the standard 12 weeks paid to 18 weeks paid portion of the 6 month maternity leave policy) in addition to other family/work/life balance benefits. I know it’s not as exciting and sexy as salary increases, but as quite a few of us women are associates these days, this would make a significant difference to me when selecting a law firm.

Also, since we started the last bump in raises, it may cause a ripple effect in the benefits arena across true top tier law firms. Perhaps even a pre-cursor to another salary bump.

Very nice! We applaud Simpson for taking this step, and encourage other large law firms to follow suit.
Update: On the subject of paternity leave, an STB source tells us: “As far as I know it’s consistent with what is posted on our website for recruiting: 4 weeks paid (and 12 weeks unpaid) paternity leave. I do not believe this has changed.”
Earlier: Biglaw Perk Watch: Maternity Leave and Paternity Leave

Sponsored

Topics