Lucky 13? Law Offices Seek Work-Life Balance via Survey

Thirteen London law offices including those of DLA Piper and Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis are participating in a survey by an outside consultant that is intended to help their attorneys achieve a better work-life balance.

"Under the scheme, researchers will carry out one-on-one interviews with practice heads and board-level leadership, as well as focus groups with teams of 12 to 15 associates," reports the Lawyer. The survey will also include interviews with key clients, in an effort to address the perception that client demands often make it difficult or impossible for lawyers to work flexible schedules or otherwise make themselves unavailable in order to focus on personal concerns.

Results of the survey, which is called "Legal Lives: Retaining Talent through a Balanced Culture" and is being conducted by the nonprofit Working Families, are expected in October.