Diversity and Inclusion in the Legal Profession (2nd edition)

Starting with a chapter on trans and non-binary issues, this book explores the main issues relating to diversity and inclusion that the legal profession is dealing with. Each chapter examines the law, including the first chapter which criticises the effectiveness of the Gender Recognition Act. This first section is informative and sets the tone for the rest of the book. Each chapter is written by experts, though they mainly represent larger firms. Such firms may find it easier to ensure that there are effective policies and procedures in place. I wish that more books like this could be written, with smaller firms in mind as well as mega firms. The high street practitioner probably still counts for the majority of firms. Having said that, the book is clear and helpful and full of suggestions for good practice.

The business case for diversity and inclusion is a clear one and has been set out repeatedly. The profession needs to be representative of society. Diversity means getting the right person or ‘essential in the talent war’ as the book tells us. It is also about being fair. The profession has made a lot of progress yet the public perception of lawyers is that we come from a very narrow section of the community.

There are also sections on women in the law, disability, race and ethnicity and age discrimination. The first chapter uses the word ‘minefield’ to describe the risks of getting things wrong, whether intentionally or not. That is a sentiment that some with sympathise with. This is an essential guide to getting it right.

There is an interesting contribution on mental health in the workplace. This is not just about the stress of professional life but also about a wider responsibility to provide a safe workplace. This will be a major issue in the post-Covid world.

I found helpful suggestions that instilling a firm’s ethos into new employees should be included in induction. These include principles of having an understanding and supportive environment that celebrates different beliefs. Overall, an excellent book.

David Pickup is a partner at Pickup & Scott Solicitors, Aylesbury

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