Partner Ed Stratford features in Financial News article ‘US law firms push staff back to the office’

Partner Ed Stratford is featured in this morning’s Financial News article discussing the ongoing push from top law firms in returning to the office.

In the article, Ed predicts more top law firms would increase their in-office requirements.

“At the top end US firms there is a pendulum swing to be in the office more; Paul Weiss is not the first firm to go to four days a week in the office, but I think that will prompt other firms to follow suit,” he said.

Stratford said fears among partners that junior lawyers are losing out on vital learning time is one factor behind the drive for increased office attendance.

“What comes up time and again with senior partners is the concern that juniors are missing out on training and learning through osmosis,” he said.

But some law firms are using their more flexible approach to attract talent, Stratford said.

“They are looking to find other ways to be attractive,” which includes a “more sensible work/life balance and working from home fits into that category.”