What's Happening?
DLA Piper, a leading global law firm, is set to increase its in-person attendance policy to three days a week for all personnel outside the United States starting in November. This move comes after the firm mandated its U.S. corporate attorneys to work from the office four days a week. The firm, which reported a gross revenue of over $4 billion in 2024, is one of the last among global elite firms to resist a four-day work week for non-U.S. staff. A spokesperson from DLA Piper stated that the update reflects the firm's commitment to face-to-face collaboration and maintaining an engaged office culture while still offering flexibility.
Why It's Important?
The decision by DLA Piper to adjust its office attendance policy highlights the ongoing evolution of work environments in the legal industry. As firms navigate the balance between remote and in-office work, DLA Piper's move may influence other firms to reconsider their own policies. The emphasis on face-to-face collaboration suggests a potential shift back towards traditional office settings, which could impact employee work-life balance and productivity. This change may also affect the firm's competitive positioning in attracting and retaining talent, as hybrid work models become a significant factor in employment decisions.
What's Next?
As DLA Piper implements its new attendance policy, other global law firms may observe the outcomes and consider similar adjustments. The firm's approach could prompt discussions on the effectiveness of hybrid work models in fostering collaboration and maintaining productivity. Additionally, the legal industry may see further developments in office attendance mandates, particularly as firms assess the long-term impacts of remote work on their operations and culture.
