Will coming out hurt your career? According to lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) lawyers who have made the leap, the answer is no.
At an event hosted at the Law Society this week, the lawyers, brought together by the Law Society and its lesbian, gay and bisexual steering group, will argue that there are great careers to be had by LGB lawyers, whether in private practice or in-house.
Though past research into the career advancement of LGB lawyers has indicated problems, many solicitors at top firms as well as rural practices are comfortable being known as gay.
According to Law Society president Lucy Scott-Moncrieff, much of this is due to a change of heart in the legal sector.
She said:
'There are more gay-friendly workplaces. Most firms understand that if their staff can't be themselves at work, they will be unhappy and less effective.
'More employers are investing in diversity and inclusion, so coming out is becoming less of a hurdle for LGB lawyers.
'There are still far too few success stories, stories of people who are out and who have brilliant careers. We have to get these stories out. I wouldn't want anyone to be discouraged from a career in law because they think you can't make it if you're out − because you can.'
Minister for Women and Equalities Jo Swinson said:
'Workplaces that are more inclusive are also more productive. So it’s vital that employers strive to promote a working environment that motivates, supports and draws on the talents of all its employees.
'People should be valued as individuals. This event organised by the Law Society is a great example of how the legal sector is engaging and empowering its lesbian, gay and bisexual staff.'
The event will take place at the Law Society on Wednesday 27 February.
Find out more about the event
Ends
About LGB lawyers in the workplace
Recent Law Society research suggests that 4 per cent of partners in large and top 100 firms and 4.8% of partners in small firms have reported that they are lesbian, gay or bisexual. The proportion of solicitors reporting that they are LGB is also 4 per cent in large and top 100 firms and 4.6 per cent in small firms. The proportion of other legal staff reporting they are LGB is higher in small firms (5.3 per cent) than large firms (2.6 per cent).
Find out more about the research
A Law Society study into the career experience of LGB solicitors has indicated that although career development is a concern, visible senior LGB role models within a firm can help tackle discrimination and the fear of being discriminated against.
The 2010 study was carried out in partnership with Interlaw Diversity Forum.
Find out more about the study
About the Law Society
The Law Society is the independent professional body, established for solicitors in 1825, that works globally to support and represent its members, promoting the highest professional standards and the rule of law.
Press contact
Emma Alatalo
Assistant Press Officer
+44 (0)20 7316 5592
emma.alatalo@lawsociety.org.uk