What's Happening?
Several major law firms across the United States are enforcing a four-day in-office attendance policy for their attorneys starting in 2026. This shift marks a significant change in workplace dynamics,
as firms like A&O Shearman, Cooley, Covington, Davis Polk, and others require lawyers to spend more time in the office. The move is part of a broader trend among Am Law 50 firms to increase in-person work, reversing previous remote work policies. Rachel Nonaka, a recruiter at Macrae, noted the pendulum is swinging back towards more in-office presence, reflecting a shift in partner and associate preferences.
Why It's Important?
The decision by top law firms to mandate increased office attendance signals a shift in the legal industry's approach to work-life balance and productivity. This change may impact the work culture, potentially affecting employee satisfaction and retention. As firms prioritize in-person collaboration, they may enhance client service and team dynamics but could face challenges in accommodating employees who prefer remote work. The policy could influence other industries to reconsider remote work arrangements, affecting broader employment trends and office space utilization.
