Women securing top legal positions

The number of females becoming partners at the leading law firms has increased by 30 per cent during the year so far.

According to figures from the Law Gazette this compares very favourably to the 14 per cent increase seen in the 12 months of 2014.

In total there have been 80 promotions to partner at the so-called ‘magic circle of law firms’ since the start of 2014 and 24 have been achieved by female employees.

Traditionally the legal sector has suffered from poor gender balance, especially at the most influential levels but these latest figures could signal that changes in culture is starting to finally happen.

Firm Clifford Chance reported that seven of its 21 promotions have been secured by female candidates and currently 17 per cent of the firm’s partners across its global network are women.

Linklaters awarded 43 per cent of its 21 promotions to women – this is significantly improved on 2013’s levels when 21 out of 24 newly appointed partners were male.

Clifford Chance managing partner-elect, Matthew Layton said: “An international mind-set and an ability to grasp the nuances of different markets and sectors are a pre-requisite of a Clifford Chance partner.

“This year’s cohort of new partners can also already claim impressive reputations in their areas of expertise and extremely strong client relationships. I congratulate each of them on their achievements thus far and wish them highly successful and rewarding careers in the Clifford Chance partnership.”

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