Authentic connections with clients and establishing credibility are pillars to having a successful law firm. It can be achieved in many ways – a proven track record, hiring practices, community involvement, or specializing in legal representation for segments of the community. It all comes down to simply leading a firm with the intention to reach, engage, and have an impact on behalf of clients.
An area where this has become more important in recent decades not only for firms but for clients when choosing a law firm, is diversity and inclusion, including representation for the LGBTQ+ community.
In celebration of Pride Month, here’s a look at good things happening across the legal community from firms to initiatives that show their colors all year long.
LGBTQ-friendly law firms are on the rise
The number of inclusive law firms is growing both as employers and firms who support and include the LGBTQ+ audience in their client base and marketing. According to a survey by the National Association for Law Placement (NALP), the number of lawyers who identified as LGBTQ+ has doubled in the past decade, up to nearly 4%. There are also a growing number of law firms such as McDivitt Law Firm and Frank Azar & Associates who serve LGBTQ+ clients in their communities, sponsor local events, get involved in Pride parades and celebrations, or promote inclusivity with content about their services on their website.
One of the ways through imagery and content the NALP brings attention to Pride month and celebrates diversity online
Resources for Law Firms
Local and national organizations in the legal industry are driving conversations and awareness with resources for lawyers that are easily accessible online. The American Bar Association does a great job of providing information and news about topics impacting the LGBTQ+ community, and ways lawyers can foster diversity or make Pride month intersectional for their firm. CLEs from the ABA or providers such as Law Practice CLE and others are available for lawyers to continue their education and expand their knowledge through CLE courses that address diversity and how to serve different populations in their community.
Demonstrating inclusivity across the industry
Positive momentum isn’t only happening inside law firms, it’s happening across the legal industry with LGBTQ+ friendly companies. As a leading law firm digital marketing agency, Hennessey Digital promotes inclusion and belonging from within, including our team member-led Diversity & Inclusion Resource Group. Our Resource Group is a safe place where team members can discuss and share knowledge and experience, and educate others as it relates to any and all elements of diversity, including LGBTQ+. Landing at an airport near you is also brand and marketing consultant Luke W Russell who travels the country sharing their passion for helping people by coaching law firms on building relationships with the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride month is a wonderful time to celebrate progress, individuals, the equality people fight for, and the journey in our history to overcome challenges. Inclusion is year-round, and the legal industry is leading the way as an example of how service-driven businesses can put pride into practice.