The Law Society has launched a flexible working protocol for legal firms, after research last year identified resistance to the practice is the ‘single most significant obstacle’ to women reaching senior roles.

The protocol presents a clear business case for flexible working, including the retention of key talent. It includes case studies highlighting successful lawyers who work flexibly in a variety of practice areas, including transactional work. Firms featured include Pinsent Masons, Allen & Overy and Addleshaw Goddard.

Chancery Lane believes firms that are signed up to its Diversity and Inclusion Charter should adopt the commitment to flexible working outlined in the protocol.

Although the protocol was driven by gender-based research, the Society stressed that it can also apply to men and is also relevant as an environmental sustainability tool.