It’s pretty clear that the #MeToo movement has left an imprint on Biglaw. Not only are Biglaw firms unwilling to put the size of a partner’s book of business ahead of their inappropriate conduct, but more and more are doing away with mandatory arbitration agreements as a condition of employment.
After Munger Tolles was called out for the practice and changed their policy, other firms voluntarily did away with the practice. Others required some good, old fashioned pressure, but eventually eliminated the agreements. While there have been some notable holdouts, the tide might finally be turning against mandatory arbitration agreements.
And McDermott Will & Emery is right on trend.
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Late last week, the firm announced they were ending the policy of mandatory arbitration. In an email to all employees, the firm’s General Counsel Linda Doyle said they are making the move to “ensure that our people have the confidence to raise challenges that, once surfaced and addressed, will make our Firm better. It will also allow us to continue to operate with the radical transparency that has enhanced our culture and our performance.”
Kudos to MWE, let’s hope even more Biglaw firms get onboard.
Read the firm’s full announcement below.
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Kathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).