The Legal Services Board (LSB) is considering proposals which would force law firms to publish diversity figures. The LSB is responsible for overseeing the regulation of solicitors and lawyers in England and Wales, and is considering new laws which would require legal firms to announce figures on the seven diversity strains – race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation and working patterns.
The proposals are being considered despite significant improvements in the range and diversity of lawyers in the UK. Women in particular have made significant strides, while black and minority solicitors are now overrepresented in the profession. Despite these developments, however, there remains a shortfall of minority lawyers at the highest levels, with the expected ‘trickle up’ effect failing to materialise. Some commentators have said that more time is required for this effect to take place, but with a prominent equality agenda, the LSB are looking at other ways to encourage law firms to promote diversity.
Indeed, despite the improvements in minority representation within the legal profession, a survey from the Race for Opportunity found that law is the second hardest profession for ethnic minorities to break in to.
Law Firms May Have to Disclose Solicitor Diversity
Thu, 09 Sep 2010
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