Among 988 UK lawyers, 18 per cent comprise ethnic minorities compared to 14 per cent of society as a whole. Four percent of lawyers identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual compared to 1.5 per cent in society. The research also found that 18 per cent  of lawyers are from non-white ethnic  backgrounds compared with 14 per cent of society as a whole. Nine per cent of lawyers are Asian, two per cent  are black and two per cent  have mixed heritage.

Partner level

This diversity is mirrored at partner level with the same percentage of non-white partners,18 per cent. The proportion of Asian partners is also the same (9 per cent), while the percentage of mixed heritage partners is higher (4 per cent) and the percentage of black partners slightly lower (1 per cent).
 “This reflects both its meritocracy and the capacity for the UK legal sector to attract talent from all around the world,” said Chris Cayley, EMEA Managing Director of Laurence Simons. “In this context, ethnicity doesn’t matter to progression – it’s a matter of ability and what you bring to the firm.”

Gender diversity low

However, the research revealed gender diversity at partner levels remain low at 28 per cent compared to 48 per cent of females at associate level. “It seems not all firms are making the most of their people and are effectively narrowing their talent pool by not maximising career opportunities for women as well as men,” continued Cayley. “Clearly there are benefits to be gained for all from promoting equality through a range of measures, such as flexible working and cultural change.”