Diversity & Inclusion in the Legal Profession’ launch evening

The report, jointly edited by us and Globe Law and Business, and published as part of the latter’s “Law firm management insights” series, explores key themes relating to Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) in the legal sector. The report contains contributions from various experts.

D&I is a critical topic that many in the legal profession feel passionate about but where far more work still needs to be done. At the event, attended by around 50 people, we heard from different contributors with specific areas of expertise, including: 

• Rachel Reese and Emma Cusdin, Global Butterflies, speaking about trans inclusion
• Marc May, The Legal Technologist, speaking about social mobility
• Yasmin Sheikh, Diverse Matters, speaking about disability and the workplace
• Gillian O’Regan and Steven Ramesh Rajavinothan, RPC, speaking about ethnic diversity
• Catherine McGregor, Catherine McGregor Research, speaking about women in the legal profession.

The evening was  compered by Parham Kouchikali from RPC who is also one of the co-authors of the chapter on ethnic diversity. RPC Senior Partner Rupert Boswell also said a few words at the start of the evening.

Each of the speakers spoke passionately about their subject, often relating their own story and personal experiences. The speeches were followed by a lively audience Q&A session and discussion – themes covered included the need for diverse groups to work more closely together, suggestions for follow-up research and mentoring & sponsorship. After the session, lively debate continued over food and drinks.

This was an excellent, well-attended and fascinating evening. Our thanks to RPC for hosting and all the speakers and organisers.

If you’d like more information about the publication either contact us or view the Globe Law and Business website.

We’re also very pleased that the report has been endorsed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority:

“Diversity and inclusion in the legal sector really matters, both for the users of legal services and for everyone working in it. This report provides people with a good overview of best practice and is a helpful contribution to raising awareness and increasing understanding”.

Jane Malcolm, Executive Director for External and Corporate Affairs, Solicitors Regulation Authority.

One of our contributors has submitted a viewpoint on his insights and what he took away from the event. Click here to read.

Please find photos of the event below.