Positive Results Mark End of Mansfield Rule Diversity Pilot

More than a dozen law firms increased the representation of women and people of color in their leadership positions within one year of implementing a rule designed to increase diversity in the hiring process.

The rule, known as the Mansfield Rule, requires law firms to consider applicant pools consisting of at least 30 percent women and attorneys of color for leadership and governance roles, equity partner promotions, and senior lateral positions. The rule was named after Arabella Mansfield, the first female attorney to obtain a law license in the U.S.

Forty-one law firms recently completed a one year pilot program ...