What Biglaw Is Saying About The Unrest Sweeping The Nation

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It is not an unfair criticism of Biglaw to say they are disconnected from the society they ostensibly serve. They frequently operate in a world of high finance and bet the company litigation that feels removed from the everyday lives of so many. But that’s the thing about 2020, it has a knack for bringing the problems of the world right to your front door.

So in the wake of protests against racism sparked by the death of George Floyd under the knee of police officer Derek Chauvin, how is Biglaw responding? Every firm will have it owns response from the concrete (donating resources and pro bono hours) to the symbolic (expressing outrage) to the silent (the work never stops in Biglaw). Above the Law is committed to documenting the reactions of all the Biglaw firms.

The first Biglaw firm that Above the Law heard had made a statement about the protests is also one of the most prestigious. Skadden’s managing partner, Eric Friedman, sent an all-firm email condemning racism and specifically calling out the recent violent deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery.

Friedman also reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to using pro bono efforts to combat racism saying the firm was looking at even more ways to use that platform. He also announced the firm made a $100,000 donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.

You can read Skadden’s full statement here.

The email that Davis Polk’s managing partner, Neil Barr, sent out is a short but heartfelt statement of grief and anger over recent events. He also affirmed the firm’s rejection of bigotry and dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Barr followed up his initial note with some of the more concrete steps the firm is taking, including a $100,000 donation to the Thurgood Marshall Institute.

The statements from Davis Polk are here.

The email from Kim Koopersmith, managing partner at Akin Gump, connected all the dots from recent events (George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Christian Cooper, and the violence against Asian Americans in the wake of COVID-19) and concluded, “It is hard not to feel the gulf that exists between the promise of our countries and the reality that continues to exist for people of color. I have no answers, but I do think that it is crucial that we  take the time to digest events and reflect on what this says about us and how much more there is to be done to achieve the level of dignity, respect and equality that everyone deserves.”

Akin Gump’s statement is available here.

Lowenstein Sandler’s Gary Wingens had one of the most thorough responses to recent events from a Biglaw firm. The firm encouraged all employees to speak up if they hear something racist, they acknowledged the emotional toll events are taking on employees and provided links to firm mental health resources, they mentioned social justice organizations that need support, and reaffirmed the firm’s pledge to support anti-bias efforts with their pro bono work.

Finally, the firm committed to keep the conversation about race and bias going, with a discussion series:

In the coming weeks, we will host multiple in-depth discussions exploring the impact of bias and racism on people of color and it’s corrosive impact on our society more generally, as well as what we can do to support one another.

Lowenstein Sandler’s full statement is available here.

Another firm that made a statement about recent events is Littler. The statement acknowledged the systemic injustices in this country and condemned any form of intolerance. They also offered this to their employees and colleagues of color:

We’re here for you; we’re listening; and we stand in solidarity with you and all those who face ongoing systemic marginalization, racism and oppression.

Littler’s statement is available here.

Squire Patton Boggs’s Mark Ruehlmann authored a blog post noting it was time for the the firm to stand up for its values and touting the firm’s record on diversity:

While neither we nor anyone else in our industry is perfect, our firm has long been recognized as a leader in providing equal opportunity where it did not always exist. Indeed, the fact that our firm has several dozen women and minorities in either elected or appointed leadership positions distinguishes us among our peers. While we still of course have work to do, we are proud of that track record in an industry that struggles with these issues. Our firm commitment to sustaining a truly diverse and inclusive organization also necessitates our standing up to speak out against the type of gross societal injustices highlighted by recent events.

Squire’s full statement is available here.

Morrison & Foerster’s Chair, Larren M. Nashelsky, penned a message noting the historical underpinnings of the current unrest and affirming the firm’s stance against it.

As a firm, Morrison & Foerster stands against this injustice. We stand not only against police brutality, but also against the racism that we see poison and destroy so much around us.

The firm also noted they will taking action in four areas: education, legal services to support racial justice, charitable donations, and community action, with the details of these programs to come.

Read Morrison & Foerster’s statement here.

Ogletree’s statement focuses on how systems of oppression are allowed to flourish and urges colleagues to take action:

We implore our colleagues to ponder how to disrupt deeply entrenched, institutionalized systems of oppression. We ask you to consider any of the following things you can do to show up for impacted communities including unearthing your own unconscious biases, reflecting how they show up in your daily life, and listening to your friends and colleagues of color. The burden is on all of us, not just those impacted, to educate ourselves. Seek out knowledge. Validate experiences.

As exceptional attorneys across the country, we are in a position of power to effectuate change.Now more than ever, we recognize that this is not the time to be silent. We must stand firm as allies in support against racial injustice. Tackle legislative changes in your jurisdiction, use pro bono hours to stand against injustice, utilize advocacy skills to speak for those without an advocate.

Ogletree’s statement is available here.

Fox Rothschild’s firmwide email begins with managing partner Mark Morris noting that he’d prefer to not talk about “political and social events that transpire in the world outside Fox Rothschild.” He then proceeds to absolutely talk about political and social events that transpire outside of Fox Rothschild, characterizing the protests as turning into “unjustifiable mayhem, threatening the safety of law enforcement officers simply trying to do their jobs, and destroying the property of innocent citizens.” Not that there isn’t property damage out there, but talk about missing the big picture here.

The firm also clarifies that the mandatory webinar on implicit bias is coincidental timing, but says “we all need help to become more sensitive to our biases.” Perhaps Morris should clear his calendar and run through the training twice.

Fox Rothschild’s email can be read here.

Clifford Chance’s statement notes that the firm will double its financial support for the Equal Justice Initiative to “support the important work that they do in furtherance of inclusion and racial justice.” And goes on to note:

We do not regard this as a comprehensive solution – it is an initial but tangible step. There remains a daily need to further inclusion across our organisation through the work of our affinity groups, policies, programmes and reporting and – perhaps most importantly – how we treat and respect each other every day. We are also exploring what options are available to us to support affected communities through our pro bono work.

Read Clifford Chance’s statement here.

Schulte’s statement condemned the recent attacks on black lives saying, “The videos we all have watched show the impunity with which people threaten, attack and kill black people, often times in broad daylight and without provocation — and ofter without fear of any consequence. These attacks must end and we must commit ourselves to this cause.”

They also note the firm is working on initiatives to address these issue and with will be discussed at a firm town hall this Friday.

Schulte’s statement can be read here.

Paul Weiss’s chair, Brad Karp, has been regularly communicating with folks at the firm since last week, expressing outrage and concern over the death of George Floyd and reaffirming a steadfast belief that black lives matter. But more than just empty words, the firm is putting its money where its mouth is. Karp announced to the firm that it was making “very significant contributions to organizations dedicated to fighting for racial justice, including the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, the ACLU, the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Center for Constitutional Rights, and the Equal Justice Initiative.”

And they’re upping their matching donations:

We have also decided, in an effort to provide even greater support to vital nonprofits, to increase the firm’s matching employee donations for 2020 from a maximum of $1,000 to $1,500 for eligible organizations.

The firm is also having a town hall meeting later this week to discuss the issue and further action items.

Karp’s most recent missive to Paul Weiss calls attention to the life of Pauli Murray — a lawyer, civil rights leader, Yale Law School graduate, and former Paul Weiss associate.

Read all the statements from Paul Weiss.

Sandy Thomas, Global Managing Partner of Reed Smith, sent an email to all personnel calling out “generations of systematic, institutionalized racism and racial injustice.” In response, the firm is organizing a series of conversation about race and discrimination, and acknowledged, “We expect these conversations to be uncomfortable, and welcome it. We do this with the intention of gaining trust, building bonds, and lifting each other up. We also do this with the intention that those who are uncertain as to how they can contribute to change can listen and learn.”

The firm is also redirecting their pro bono efforts to prioritize racial justice. And their wellness program will “support those among us who have suffered and are suffering from the trauma of discrimination, injustice, and violence.”

Read the statement from Reed Smith here.

Gunderson Dettmer’s managing partner, David T. Young, announced that the firm is making mental health resources available to those who need it during this challenging time. They are also making donations to Black Lives Matter and the Equal Justice Initiative.

But more importantly, we remain committed to advancing employee resources and programs to enhance the diversity and inclusiveness of our workplace and help us all identify and address our biases. We understand that these times can feel overwhelming and so we encourage you to check in with one another, offer compassion and communicate openly about the needs that our colleagues may have in taking care of themselves to cope with these recent tragedies.

The firm is also matching employee contributions to the following organizations, up to $250:

Black Lives Matter

Equal Justice Initiative

Southern Poverty Law Center

National Urban League

NAACP Legal Defense Fund

Center for Policing Equity

Gunderson Dettmer’s statement is available here.

Crowell & Moring’s managing partner Phillip Inglima’s message called for a moment of silence in George Floyd’s memory. He also noted:

We must shine a light on these horrific acts of bigotry and injustice that relentlessly plague especially the black members of our communities, and we all can and must play a role in seeking a cure. We can begin locally, with being sensitive towards the many members of our Crowell family who are hurting right now, who feel these threats and injustices personally and deeply, and who need and deserve our support. And we will continue our ongoing efforts to create opportunities in our own community for conversation about race and racial justice, through our dialogues, our speaker events, and further programs to raise awareness and provide training about the destructive impact of bias, both explicit and implicit.

Read the statement from Crowell & Moring.

Faiza Saeed sent an email to the Cravath Community expressing outrage over the death of George Floyd and the “too long list of Black people who have lost their lives to injustice borne of racism.” The firm also reaffirmed its commitment to channeling pro bono and philanthropy “toward ensuring the protection and promotion of those fundamental civil rights and civil liberties that create a fairer and more just society.” They also announced an expansion of their partnership with the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights and a special contribution of $100,000 to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.

Cravath’s statement is here.

Jackson Lewis’s co-chairs, William J. Anthony and Kevin G. Lauri, sent a message that affirmed that the firm “has always been an organization that embraces and supports every identity that makes up our firm. We are proud to have a workforce that includes different races, ethnicities, backgrounds and perspectives. Today and every day, we stand with our Black colleagues. We reject racism and intolerance, and pledge to promote more education, listening and reflection within our firm to ensure we are actively supporting every member of the Jackson Lewis family.”

The firm is also exploring options “to combat racism and intolerance and treat each other with fairness and compassion.”

Statement from Jackson Lewis is available here.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett sent out a firmwide email earlier this week expressing anger and despair over the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. The firm also shared its plans to facilitate conversations on race and support of projects to combat racism:

I promise you that racism and hate will never be tolerated at our Firm. I assure you that we will focus yet more on diversity and inclusion at our Firm. Over the coming weeks, our colleagues on the Diversity Committee and members of the D&I team will explore ideas, resources and programs that will help us build a platform to facilitate a conversation on empathy and allyship. The Firm is also collaborating with the Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals in a collective response from law firms across the U.S. We will continue to update you on these efforts. Of course, we will also continue to support pro bono projects that combat racism and racial injustices. Please reach out to me, the diversity co-chairs (Karen Kelley, Sandy Qusba and Bill Russell) or the D&I team if you have ideas.

Simpson Thacher’s statement is available here.

Pillsbury Chair David Dekker and Managing Partner Ed Perron issued a joint statement expressing outrage over the death of George Floyd. They also called attention to the unique role of lawyers in fighting injustice:

Working with clients and community organizations, we are developing opportunities for all members of our Firm to be part of the solution through additional pro bono and other volunteer service focused on racial injustice and improving the criminal justice system. We remain committed to diversity and inclusion at all levels, combatting racism and discrimination wherever it exists.

Pillsbury’s statement is available here.

Nelson Mullins chair, Jim Lehman, condemned the recent “racial incidents in Minnesota and New York.” The message ended with a challenge to the firm, “to be an agent of change with leadership in our communities and pro bono cases that work for meaningful change.”

Statement from Nelson Mullins available here.

Leadership at Katten Muchin Rosenman sent a pair of emails noting the racism in the country not only as it manifests in police brutality, “but also in the halls of respected companies and successful law firms. The institutional barriers to success and prosperity entrenched by systemic racism are not to be forgotten as we address the realities of physical threats to African-Americans and other communities of color.”

The firm’s second email played into the trope that everyone is a special snowflake and everyone is diverse in their own way and attached a graphic explaining the concept:

“[D]iversity comes in many forms.” If you can figure out how to create an environment in which everyone is willing to share genuinely who they are and appreciate who other people are, we would probably realize how much we all have in common, regardless of race, gender, or gender or sexual identification, and our world, our firm and every person would benefit greatly.”

Katten’s statements are available here.

White & Case Chair Hugh Verrier’s message to the firm includes a call for everyone to educate themselves about systemic racism and to work to create a more just world. In addition to information sessions produced by the firm’s diversity committee, the firm also encourages everyone to get involved in the firm’s pro bono efforts:

We can also take action in the fight against racial injustice, and work to heal our communities, through pro bono and other volunteer activity. If you would like to work with your colleagues to make a difference, please contact our head of global citizenship, Jo Weiss, for more information about the Firm’s efforts in this area.

Read White & Case’s statement here.

Fenwick & West’s Chair Richard Dickson sent out a message expressing horror at the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. He also affirmed Fenwick’s belief in diversity and called on people at the firm to be part of a new path prioritizing equality and justice.

Read Fenwick & West’s statement.

Dentons’s Global Chief Executive Officer, Elliott I. Portnoy, sent a message to those at the firm about the injustice and daily threats from racism. He also encouraged employees to use the resources of the firm to take a stand for a better world.

But I know we cannot remain silent and, along with my colleagues in the US and around the world, we must continue our shared fight against racism and discrimination in all its forms. We need inclusive societies and organizations that celebrate the individual perspectives, experience, insight and ideas all of us bring.

Read the statement from Dentons here.

Orrick’s chair Mitch Zulkie took this moment to double down on the firm’s racial justice efforts and launch a new program to the fight for civil rights and social justice:

Change starts at home, and we have work to do. As lawyers and legal professionals, we have a heightened duty. We took an oath – and with it comes professional responsibility to stand up and fight for racial and social justice. Orrick will be devoting greater resources to pro bono civil rights and social justice matters, including opportunities for our staff to participate through Orrick Cares. To start, we will launch the Orrick Racial Justice Fellowship Program to enable at least five Orrick lawyers to devote a year each to working on civil rights and social justice issues.

Orrick’s statement is here.

Leaders at Cozen O’Connor committed to increasing their support of pro bono efforts and financial support for social justice organizations:

Cozen O’Connor and our employees have a long history of unwavering personal and financial commitment to the protection of civil and human rights. But we can and will do better. We commit to do all we can to promote a just society for which we can all be proud. In the next several weeks, we will be rallying behind our colleagues of color and our communities by providing internal and external support, training, and education. Our firm will continue to offer pro bono legal services for matters that derive from civil rights’ violations. Lastly, we will financially support social justice organizations committed to these ideals.

The statement from Cozen O’Connor is available here.

The Executive Committee at Cahill sent a brief note expressing outrage over the death of George Floyd and standing with the “peaceful protesters.” The firm also indicated they’d provide financial support for “worthy” organizations.

Cahill’s statement is here.

Winston & Strawn’s Tom Fitzgerald and Michael Elkin shared the message that in light of recent events they “can no longer quietly return to life as it was and look the other way. Doing so is an abdication of the imperative to connect events that reoccur with morbid consistency, and it goes against our humanity and identity as a firm.”

As a result they are pledging firm resources to support efforts to dismantle racism:

Through training and education, internal programs and courageous discussions, we will continue to raise awareness of overt and implicit bias and ways in which we can disrupt its impact. Equally important, through our pro bono work, community involvement and charitable giving, we will continue to work to dismantle racism, inequality and racial injustice in our society. Today, we are asking key stakeholders, including our Black Lawyers Network, for immediate recommendations on how the firm can be on the leading edge of the national movement to address and rectify the ongoing harm caused by racism and racial inequality in our society. We are committing the firm’s resources to support those recommendations once they are solidified and rectified.

Winston & Strawn’s statement is here.

Dickinson Wright’s CEO Michael Hammer sent an email expressing grief over recent events.

We cannot pretend to have answers right now for our collective grief, but we can promise our continued efforts to find light, to find solace, and to find justice; in short, to find ways to ensure that all individuals are heard and treated with the respect, dignity, and humanity that so many, like George Floyd, have been denied.

He also said the firm was working on a larger joint statement with other Metro Detroit firms and supported a city counsel resolution declaring racism a public health crisis.

Dickinson Wright

Baker Botts’s John Martin sent a message to the firm saying he was “deeply troubled” by recent events, and, “These are but a few examples illustrating the inequality and unfair treatment impacting many in our communities, including our colleagues and clients.”

He also affirmed the firm’s commitment to diversity and dialogue:

As a Firm committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive environment, the continued unfair treatment of certain racial groups is disturbing and cannot be tolerated. We must come together and find ways – through actions and not just words – to be part of the solution. This includes facilitating difficult but necessary discussions surrounding issues such as institutional racism and bias.

The firm has scheduled a diversity dialogue for June 19th.

The statement from Baker Botts is here.

David Boies sent a message to his eponymous firm “underscor[ing] the racial divide and unequal distribution of justice that still exist in the United States and around the world.” He noted that George Floyd’s death “reminds us how far we still have to go to achieve the promise of equality that our Constitution makes to each of us.” And unveiled the firm’s new homepage which now reads as a statement against injustice.

You can find the statement from Boies Schiller here.

Davis Wright Tremaine’s managing partner, Jeff Gray, sent an email to the firm expressing anger over the death of George Floyd. He also indicated how the firm will be supporting the Black Lives Matter movement:

As mass demonstrations continue across the country, many of our lawyers and staff have asked how we can help fight systemic racism and injustice, combat unjust policies and practices that disproportionately affect communities of color, and how we can generally support the broader Black Lives Matter movement. Our Pro Bono and Social Impact team is collaborating with leading national civil rights organizations and community-based nonprofits to identify opportunities for attorneys and staff to advocate for reform, and advance equity and justice for impacted communities. Those opportunities are being posted on the Race Equity + Justice and Protestor Rights section of our Pro Bono Portal. We’ll provide more information about how both attorneys and staff can get involved in our efforts to take action for change at our June firm-wide Town Hall.

Davis Wright Tremaine’s statement is here.

Leadership at Vinson & Elkins sent an email expressing heartbreak over the deaths of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery. The email then went on to express support for building a more inclusive work environment and announced the firm will now participate in the Mansfield Rule certification process.

Vinson & Elkins’s statement is available here.

David Djaha, Managing Partner, and Julie Jones, Chair, at Ropes & Gray sent a message to the firm expressing shock and outrage at the death of George Floyd:

What happened to Mr. Floyd, and in the other shocking incidents across the country, should never be tolerated. These incidents have again brought into focus the dark reality for many—racism continues to run rampant through this country. They also serve as yet another reminder of the persistence of injustice in America, and why many of us feel an imperative to give voice to our shared frustration and reaffirm our guiding principles. Acts of racism, violence and hatred have no place in our society—and we condemn them.

The statement also affirmed Ropes’s commitment to diversity and provided links to the firm’s wellness resources should anyone need them during this time.

The Ropes & Gray statement is available here.

Seyfarth’s Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Kori Carew, sent an email expressing the “rage, sorrow, grief, fear, despair, hopelessness, helplessness, and anxiety” she’s experienced over the last week. She also reminded everyone at the firm that their black colleagues are not okay right now and called on people to be anti-racist.

Carew also included a list on concrete steps the firm is taking:

• In the next few days and weeks, you will hear more from me. You will also hear from the Diversity and Inclusion Action Team, Affinity Group Chairs, Pete Miller, and Seyfarth leaders. Our forward movement through these times will be collaborative.

• In the next week we will have a Firm Town Hall to process the recent events, the underlying racial inequity, the resulting trauma, our roles as change agents and allies, and how we protect the inclusion and diversity we value. We will keep you posted as details firm up.

• Our leaders will receive toolkits on leading inclusively during  this time. Information on being allies and understanding race in America will also be available to every employee on InSeyt soon. We will also make ourselves available to leadership to answer questions and discuss inclusive leadership competencies.

• On Tuesday, we had a check-In webinar with our Black professionals at Seyfarth. It was a time of community, healing and processing. I invited Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett from Kent University who is a professor, psychologist, and author. We will continue to dialogue with these colleagues. The graphic at the bottom  of this email was created by a partner on the call who took the words we typed when asked how we felt and placed it into a word cloud. I hope you find it impactful. Our colleagues were grateful for this chance to commune in a safe space together.

• Pro Bono and Inclusion and Diversity are exploring opportunities for pro bono and community service. These discussions are still underway as we explore and research what is available and what is a good fit for the firm.

• As we pivoted our action plan for Inclusion & Diversity in March and April, we will again examine our I&D strategy and action plan to ensure we are addressing issues and concerns that have arisen in the last two weeks.

Seyfarth’s chair and managing partner, Pete Miller also sent out a statement amplifying Carew’s message. Available in full here.

The Seyfarth statement is available here.

Mintz managing member Bob Bodian sent the firm a message of mourning over George Floyd’s death. He noted:

The culture of hate, of racism, of prejudice, of violence, of disrespect, and of tolerance of those whose language and actions encourage and normalize such behavior, needs to be recognized and changed.

The Mintz statement is available here.

Neil Wasser, chair of Constangy’s executive  committee, sent a message to the firm expressing outrage over both the death of George Floyd and the systemic racism that allows it to happen. He called on the firm to effect change:

While peaceful protests have been marred by people seeking to take advantage of this sad time in our country, let’s remain focused on the tragedy of Mr. Floyd’s death and the lessons that can be learned from his murder, and the similar murders of people targeted specifically because of their race. Let’s put our grief and outrage to good use and have conversations about what has happened, about the corrosive role that racism – overt or subtle – plays in our society, and what we can do to effect change.

The statement from Constangy is available here.

King & Spalding’s Robert Hayes sent a message to the firm about the tragedy of Geoge Floyd’s death and the “amount of work that still needs to be done to overcome injustice and inequality in the U.S. and across the world.”

He also focused on the pro bono opportunities at the firm that are focused on equal justice:

As members of the legal profession, we have a heightened responsibility and opportunity to work towards ensuring equal justice for all. While the firm has long led and supported initiatives focused on social justice, following the recent tragedies, a number of individuals at the firm have redoubled our efforts with some of our long-standing partners to offer our support and engagement and work to find new and more effective ways we can contribute. One example of an organization where more investments are being made is the Atlanta Bar Association’s Equal Justice in Law Enforcement Initiative, which our partner Harold Franklin launched as the Bar president in 2016 and which brings together the legal community, law enforcement and community members to strengthen relations and educate citizens about their rights. Another is the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law, a national organization that has engaged the private bar in pro bono work since its founding in 1963.

The statement from King & Spalding is available here.

Cooley announced a $450,000 donation to the Equal Justice Initiative, to “works to end mass incarceration and excessive punishment, to challenge racial and economic injustice and to protect basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in America.”

Joe Conroy, Cooley’s chairman and chief executive officer, had this to say about the donation:

“It is time to seek out education; learn about ourselves and each other; converse and collaborate; and stand together as one, united against the racism, bias and hatred that seek to divide us – it is time for action.”

Cooley’s statement is available here.

Mayer Brown’s Paul Theiss sent out a message acknowledging that recent event have left folks feeling “sad, frustrated, anxious and angry.” He also called attention to the roll of lawyers in seeking justice. Theiss called on people to the following:

I invite each of you to join me in:

– listening to and learning from colleagues and friends who have experienced or witnessed discrimination;

– educating ourselves about the unique and complex relationship that Black people and other people of color have with their communities and their institutions, including their workplaces;

– examining the bias in our own thoughts and behaviors;

– engaging our friends and family in uncomfortable conversations about the problem of racism and bigotry of all kinds; and

– understanding that many members of the Mayer Brown family have been psychologically and emotionally affected by these ongoing injustices and showing them that they have our unwavering support.

The statement from Mayer Brown is here.

Boutique Edelson P.C. make an unequivocal statement in support of Black Lives Matter:

Our firm stands firmly with the protestors, the Black Lives Matter movement, and for justice for the Floyd family and every family that has lost loved ones to police brutality. The rhetoric coming from the President and the violence he, other governmental officials, and some members of law enforcement are directing towards the peaceful protesters is inconsistent with our values as Americans.

Our firm has begun talks with some of the community leaders and groups who have been leading the efforts to secure institutional changes around the criminal justice system that the country sorely needs. We hope to follow their leadership and offer our resources to help ensure that this nationwide tragedy forces these changes that are long, long overdue.

It also promised to keep the dialogue going and to support the movements for reform.

The statement from Edelson is here.

Dinsmore leadership circulated a statement taking a stand against racism and police brutality.

We will not stand silently as others dismiss the impact of inequality on members of our community. We vow to vigorously defend against bigotry and oppression, to do our part to make a kinder, more equitable world, and to be a strong voice in the chorus demanding justice and peace for people of color. In the coming weeks and months, our firm leadership will develop an action plan that puts into practice these fundamental beliefs.

The statement from Dinsmore is here.

Leadership at Hogan Lovells stated unequivocally there can be no justification for the death of George Floyd. They went on:

As a firm we have a long track record in opposing racism and injustice in the workplace and in society at large, standing side-by-side with our African American and other colleagues of color. In response to the tragic events in Minneapolis and around the country, we are actively working to provide tangible support to those who work at our firm and in our society at large. We will be sharing our specific actions in the days and weeks to come.

The statement from Hogan Lovells is here.

Milbank’s chair Scott Edelman sent a message to the firm about the horrors of George Floyd’s death. He also discussed some of the specific steps the firm’s taking:

Milbank has a long tradition of representing those who have suffered discrimination and injustice, and we continue to be actively engaged in cases seeking systemic change and redress. The firm is taking steps today to donate $100,000 to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, and the Equal Justice Initiative, collectively, to further those efforts. We will continue to seek additional opportunities to shift current paradigms. As lawyers, we can do more than protest peacefully. We can use the law to make a difference.

Edelman also had an all attorneys call to further the conversation and provide more details on the firm’s actions.

Milbank’s statement is here.

O’Melveny’s Brad Butwin sent out an initial message to the firm acknowledging the grief and anguish surrounding the death of George Floyd, and encouraging folks to take advantage of the firm’s employee assistance program.

He then followed up with another email detailing some of the steps the firm was taking, including donations to The Advancement Project, The Color of Change, and the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund. He also said the firm would be stepping up its pro bono commitment, and that these steps would only be the beginning of the firm’s social justice work.

O’Melveny’s statement is here.

Leadership at Foley Hoag sent a message expressing outrage over George Floyd’s death, and said the firm wold work to promote positive change:

Now more than ever we need to look to our core Diversity & Inclusion principles and values as we attempt to understand, cope with, and combat these deep-rooted societal inequities. Here among colleagues and friends, it is important to remember our common values and concerns, and to stand in opposition to bigotry, hatred, and violence. As a firm that has long prided itself on speaking out and taking action against injustice, we will continue to work with our community and legal partners to promote positive change not only in the cities in which we live and work, but also in society at large.

The statement from Foley Hoag is here.

Leadership at Cleary sent an email talking broadly about social justice. It noted, “Allyship is a key part of creating an environment in which we can all thrive, and our efforts on this front will continue, including by providing space for our more impacted colleagues to discuss their concerns and voice their needs.”

Cleary NY Black associates sent an office wide email in response (available here in full — and it’s absolutely something you should read). It called out the firm’s response as lackluster rhetoric that failed to provide concrete steps to directly support black associates at the firm. The email recommended the following: acknowledge the pain of black associates, actively check-in and adjust, give grace, provide targeted mental health support, targeted pro bono efforts, effective mechanisms for addressing anti-blackness, educate, listen and take action.

Again you should read their response.

The statement from Cleary is here.

Goodwin leadership expressed horror at the violence being directed at black people. Adding:

At this moment, we want to be clear about where we stand and in what we believe, about our desire for our children to live in more harmony than we do, about our commitment and effort to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging, about the need for everyone to speak up and denounce injustice.

We appreciate so many other law firms and business leaders speaking out on this topic, and we humbly add our voice to the chorus. It may sound like a cacophony at times, but if you listen closely you will hear the symphony of hope.

The statement from Goodwin is here.

Fragomen sent a message calling out the “horrific acts of racism and inhumanity.” They also reaffirmed their “commitment to justice, human rights and diversity.”

But according to tipsters at the firm, the statement struck many at the firm as shallow. As an insider tells Above the Law:

The Executive Committee called a townhall to discuss their statement, because a number of employees questioned why the firm didn’t once mention black lives matter or the names of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Armaud Arbery, among others in their statement. The answer they provided was that they made a conscious decision to not include their names or mention black lives matter because they didn’t want to “diminish prior incidents”. They then reiterated that the firm is committed to diversity, but did not respond when asked which organizations they are supporting in light of the recent shootings and murders.

The statement from Fragomen is here.

Jonathan Harmon, chair on McGuireWoods, said that the death of George Floyd was “vicious, senseless and inhumane” and that, along with other recent events compelled him to make a statement.

He said the firm is forming an action plan to bring lasting change:

At McGuireWoods we are targeting and focusing on justice, peace and positive long-lasting change, because all of us here want everyone to be treated equally and to be free from fear. As a result, we have put together a very diverse group of our lawyers – young and not so young – to strategize and to develop a plan for the communities in which we work and where we can make a difference on how to make racial equality with the police a reality.

McGuireWoods’s statement.

Stroock leadership expressed anger and sadness at recent events. They also affirmed their commitment to diversity:

We want to assure you that we are wholeheartedly committed to Stroock’s core values of diversity and inclusion. We recognize the moral imperative to stand up, speak out and unequivocally condemn racism wherever we find it, in any shape or form, tacit or explicit. As a firm and as individuals, we will strive to advance the value of equality for all.

They also sent a follow up message in recognition of the National Day of Mourning. That email acknowledged the trauma many black and brown colleagues were going through:

For those who don’t have friends, family or close members of your networks who are black, you may not know how difficult this time is for the community. The anguish associated with racism, we understand is real, and seeing pictures and video of black people being killed is even more traumatic and cumulative. For many, the current events in the United States are experienced as clinical-level trauma. Research shows that when people of color see these images, they internalize them – they see themselves, their friends, their family.

It also encouraged everyone to keep the conversation going and to take care of their mental health.

Read the statement from Stroock.

Cadwalader’s statement offered support to black associates at the firm. The firm also affirmed the need to: support diversity and inclusion efforts, promote open discussions, provide financial support for social justice organizations (and announcing the firm’s donations to the same),and volunteer (they also committed to providing updated resources on pro bono efforts).

Read the statement from Cadwalader.

Kirkland sent around an email pledging to be part of the fight for equality and ending injustice. The firm also announced they’d be donating $5 million over the next five years in support of those efforts.

Read the statement from Kirkland.

Proskauer chair Steve Ellis sent an email expressing disgust, anger and sadness over the death of George Floyd. He went on to say:

I cannot suggest I understand fully what fearing being a victim of racial discrimination must feel like (or worrying that my sons or daughter will become victims), but I know that it is a reality for our Black colleagues. And I know we are obligated to come together to work to eradicate that fear and the possibility of continued violent hate crimes. We can help, and must help. As a community and a Firm it is incumbent on us to not stay quiet. We need to say – loudly, and often, that violence against our own is not consistent with who we are and who we want to be. We need to stand together as families, friends, in our towns and across the Firm to ensure that those in our Black communities (and our Black colleagues at Proskauer) feel included and safe (at the Firm and otherwise).

He also said the firm was working with the black affinity group to find ways the firm can be part of the solution.

Read the statement from Proskauer.

Mark Katz, chair of Arent Fox, pledged that the firm would not stand on the sideline during the fight against racial injustice:

Part of the answer as a law firm needs to be that we seized on our obligation and opportunity to do more. In the coming days we will be establishing a Firm task force to determine the actions that we can take to address issues of racial injustice, violence, and police-community relations. As lawyers and policy experts we have a unique skillset to help bring about meaningful change. We can do that in the form of workshops, targeted community engagements, and engaging in legal actions through partnerships with civic organizations. We will not stand on the sidelines.

The full statement from Arent Fox is here.

Stinson released a statement in which the firm pledged to listen and keep the conversation going:

As we have listened to the stories and experiences of our own constituents of color and others, it has become apparent that racism is an insidious plague that persons of color have to constantly account for, teach their children about and have learned to expect in contexts and circumstances that others never have to think about. As a law firm built around core principles of fairness and the rule of law, and with stated goals and principles based on diversity, inclusion, equity and opportunity, we reject these conditions. We condemn racism and violence.

The full statement from Stinson is here.

Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck’s message was that they’d redouble their commitment to diversity, equity, justice and equality for all.

The full statement from Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck is here.

Lathrop GPM affirmed their commitment to using firm resources to advance social justice:

We remain committed to identifying ways we can use our professional experience to advance these objectives. This includes providing pro bono support and assistance to those who have been impacted by the events of the last two weeks, as well as continuing our ongoing work with organizations such as the Midwest Innocence Project and The Advocates for Human Rights. We will also continue to pursue partnerships within our industry to promote progress. This means continuing to work with local and national organizations — such as Twin Cities Diversity in Practice, the Jackson County (Missouri) Bar Association, and bar associations in many of our other communities, the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity and the CEO Action for Diversity and Inclusion — to promote diversity and equity in the legal profession. We will pursue these objectives at all times, as we know that the change that is needed will happen in the weeks, months and years to come, long after the world’s attention turns to something else.

The full statement from Lathrop GPM is here.

Hughes Hubbard & Reed’s chair Ted Mayer sent a message saying:

We can all stand together in demanding justice and an end to institutional and individual racism. We can work to be better as a firm in our diversity and inclusion efforts and our commitment to leveling the playing field for those who can advance to be a stronger firm. I encourage each of you to call your colleagues, mentees and clients to ask how they are doing and offer your support and encouragement. And those of us with a passion to press for change can participate through peaceful, insistent protest and by using our skills as advocates, mentors and sponsors to increase opportunity, level the playing field and defend the unrepresented.

The full statement from Hughes Hubbard & Reed is here.

Jones Day’s statement on the death of George Floyd is at the end of a firmwide update on various current events including COVID-19, healthcare and the recent passing of a partner. The message quotes Bobby Kennedy’s reaction to the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. and promised to circle back with more concrete steps to advance the “rule of law governing policing in the minority communities.”

The full statement from Jones Day is here.

Leadership at Latham issued a statement condemning the recent racial violence and standing as “advocates for justice.”

They also announced the following programs:

Through direct contributions from the firm, our people, and a generous matching program, we commit to donating a minimum of $500,000 to organizations fighting for justice and equality, including the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the Equal Justice Initiative. We believe these contributions will have an immediate impact on important work already underway.

In addition, through our pro bono program — one of the largest in the world — we will significantly expand our focus on and longtime commitment to the cause of social justice and equality. In our courthouses and our communities, across the country and around the world, we pledge to bring our resources to bear in this battle
for racial equality.

The full statement from Latham is here.

Leadership at Venable sent around an email affirming the firm’s commitment to “working together to fight racism.” Towards that end, the firm is hosting events to encourage education and conversation on the topic. They’re also expanding pro bono efforts and its charitable donations:

The Venable Foundation and the firm’s pro bono initiative are well-established and well-positioned to continue to support community organizations on the front lines of these issues while providing opportunities for individual attorneys to contribute their talents.  Seth Rosenthal sent an email yesterday highlighting relevant pro bono matters that need your support.  We encourage you to engage in these efforts.  The Venable Foundation will contribute $100,000 to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.  The Foundation will also contribute an additional $100,000 to organizations in our communities that are making a difference on these matters.  If you would like to recommend a relevant organization in your community to receive funding, please email Michael Bigley, Director of the Venable Foundation.

The statement from Venable.

U.S. leaders at Allen & Overy shared an message of support with their U.S. employees which also said they are making a $10,000 donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and looking to increase their pro bono efforts. Global leadership also sent a message to all employees, encouraging dialogue on issues of race.

Talking about race and racism can be uncomfortable. If you are uncertain how to approach such issues we encourage you to focus on four behaviours:

• Be aware: if you are not familiar with the challenges facing black communities in your country, then educate yourself. Talk to colleagues and read the news and literature available to you (Penguin Books: Nine books to help you understand and dismantle racism)

• Be open: position yourself to gain a broader perspective of the world by connecting with others that can offer a different perspective and don’t be afraid to have conversations about racial inclusion in the workplace and beyond

• Be supportive: always be willing to listen to your black colleagues and understand that their experience may be different from those of a non-black person

• Be outspoken: act if you see or hear something disrespectful or inappropriate.

The statement from Allen & Overy.
Susman Godfrey made a statement condemning the “recent unjustified killings of Black and Brown people.” They also said:

Specifically, the partners have committed to the following:

• Each December, our firm makes significant charitable donations to honor our clients and professional colleagues. This year, 100% of our donations will be made to organizations that work for racial justice, and they will be made in memory of George Floyd.

• Susman Godfrey will “double match” every dollar donated by a Susman Godfrey employee to a 501(c)(3) organization working for racial justice. If you donate $1 to any such organization, we will give $2 more. If you give $500, we’ll give $1,000 more.

• We will encourage our lawyers to substantially increase their commitment to pro bono representation and urge them to do so on cases that implicate racial justice.

• We will take a hard look at our hiring and retention practices. Though we have a longstanding commitment to diversity, we know that we can and must do better at recruiting and retaining minority attorneys, paralegals, secretaries, and staff.  As a start, we will expand by 100% our current Diversity Fellowship program for 1st year law students.

• We know that there is a lot we don’t know. We are committed to better educating ourselves about systemic racism and how it affects our society and our profession.  We will continue to make available and encourage all our partners and employees to attend workshops and seminars on systemic racism, conducted by organizations with genuine expertise.

The statement from Susman Godfrey.

Brown Rudnick’s William R. Baldiga made a statement that recognized the systemic and pervasive nature of racism. He went on to note:

Brown Rudnick remains committed to advancing equity and inclusion within the Firm and beyond. We are actively pursuing opportunities to contribute our resources and talents to this fight – continuing and expanding on our pro bono commitments, exploring new relationships with organizations that are on the front lines, and financially supporting initiatives that seek to end racial inequality in the justice system. Beyond these efforts, we are committed to examining our own practices and Firm culture to ensure that we are part of the solution and not part of the problem. I am proud to lead Brown Rudnick in these efforts and pledge that we will do our part.

The statement from Brown Rudnick.

Sidley’s statement stands against bigotry, hate and violence and affirm’s the firm’s pro bono work:

We further reaffirm our commitment to the work we are doing to combat racial injustice and to advance the fundamental principles of equality, inclusion and justice – within our firm, but also in society at large. We are committed to action in support of these principles, in the work that we pursue, the causes we support and in the time our people dedicate to pro bono representation of groups working for social justice.

The statement from Sidley is here.

Leaders at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner sent a message recognizing the grief inherent in the current moment:

To our black and African American colleagues, friends and family: We see you. We hear you. We grieve with you and we stand with you. We know your experiences have long been ignored and devalued. We are committed to listening with an open mind and open heart while we work to do our part as friends and allies to ensure you are not left alone carrying the weight of a problem you did not create, but the consequences of which you live with every day.

The also said they’d be in touch with more specific opportunities for allyship.

The statement from Bryan Cave is here.

Leadership at Baker Hostetler sent an email detailing the firm’s actions in light of recent events. They announced they’re hiring a Director of Inclusion and Diversity, making a donation to the Equal Justice Initiative, and increasing nonprofit engagement. Additionally they noted:

• Support our African American colleagues with compassion and empathy.
• Educate yourself about racism and injustice. There are lots of great lists circulating, including books (fiction and non-fiction, historical and current, adult and children’s), as well as movies, podcasts and social media. We will also be adding training on these topics to our professional development curriculum. If you need help finding a resource, please reach out to us.
• Be open to conversation with a colleague or friend who doesn’t look like you. We all have blind spots and talking with someone with different life experience or background may help you learn more about yourself.
• Get Involved. Connect with your office inclusion and diversity committee about the positive steps you and your colleagues in your office can take during this challenging time. Additionally, as lawyers, we have a unique opportunity to use the law to make a difference. Participate in seminars and other opportunities to support civic and human rights organizations engaged in the fight for justice.
• Use your voice and speak up if you witness instances of racism by others.

The statement from Baker Hostetler is here.

We need your help to make this list as complete as possible. If your firm has made a statement about Black Lives Matter, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Christian Cooper, or the protests, let us know. You can email us or text us (646-820-8477). We’ll regularly update this post as we receive more information.

Current list of Biglaw statements:

Akin Gump
Allen & Overy
Arent Fox
Baker Botts
Baker Hostetler
Barnes & Thornburg
Boies Schiller
Brown Rudnick
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
Cadwalader
Cahill
Cleary
Clifford Chance
Constangy
Cooley
Covington
Cozen O’Connor
Cravath
Crowell & Moring
Davis Polk
Davis Wright Tremaine
Dentons
Dickinson Wright
Dinsmore
Edelson P.C.
Fenwick & West
Foley Hoag
Fox Rothschild
Fragomen
Goodwin
Gunderson Dettmer
Hogan Lovells
Hughes Hubbard & Reed
Jackson Lewis
Jones Day
Katten
Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck
King & Spalding
Kirkland
Latham
Lathrop GPM
Littler
Lowenstein Sandler
Mayer Brown
McGuireWoods
Milbank
Mintz
Morrison & Foerster
Munger TollesNelson Mullins
Norton Rose Fulbright
Ogletree
O’Melveny
Orrick
Paul Weiss
Pillsbury
Proskauer
Reed Smith
Robins Kaplan
Ropes & Gray
Schulte
Seyfarth Shaw
Sidley
Simpson Thacher
Skadden
Squire Patton Boggs
Stinson
Stoel RivesStroock
Susman Godfrey
Venable
Vinson & Elkins
White & Case
Winston & Strawn

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Kathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).