National law firm Akerman proudly announces its recognition as one of the leading champions of diversity and inclusion in the legal industry, securing a prominent position as one of the most diverse large U.S. law firms. According to the Law360 Diversity Snapshot released last week, Akerman achieved the number one ranking for the most diverse associate team among the largest U.S. law firms, with nearly half of all Akerman associates identifying as people of color. Additionally, the firm has earned distinction for having the largest percentage of Black and Hispanic associates among large U.S. law firms.
In calculating these rankings, the Diversity Snapshot assessed the number and percentage of diverse lawyers at more than 280 law firms across the country. The numbers, reported as of the end of last year, were matched against benchmarks representing the total population of diverse lawyers in the nation. Akerman was one of only 13 law firms with more than 600 lawyers that showed overall diversity improvement in 2022. Of those firms, Akerman ranked first in associate diversity and 11th overall.
The full rankings show that people of color make up 17.3 percent of all Akerman partners (including 20.7 percent of nonequity partners), 48.4 percent of associates, and 18.3 percent of other lawyers (i.e., counsel). In addition, 13.4 percent of Akerman associates are Black and 21.7 percent are Hispanic — these were, by far, the largest percentages among any of the largest firms in the survey, with no other peer firm fielding more than 10.6 percent or 11.5 percent of Black and Hispanic associates, respectively.
These rankings demonstrate the effectiveness and impact of Akerman's continuing diversity efforts. Firm Chairman and CEO Scott A. Meyers said, "We believe that diversity is a clear strength that makes us better lawyers and a stronger firm. Building a diverse team is about doing good and doing well for our clients, colleagues, and communities. Diversity is at the core of our culture, which is based on integrity, respect, and fairness for all. Diversity also drives innovation, creativity, productivity, and performance, which in turn fuels Akerman’s outstanding client service and overall success. Akerman remains committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I am very pleased to see that our efforts are continuing to move the needle. There is more work to be done, but we are heading in the right direction."
Dr. Cassandra Caldwell, who serves as the firm's Chief Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Officer, said, "Diversity, equity, and inclusion are part of Akerman's DNA. Our ranking in the Diversity Snapshot is very encouraging. We remain committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and will continue to improve each year."
About Akerman
Akerman LLP is a top 100 U.S. law firm recognized among the most forward-thinking firms in the industry by Financial Times. Its more than 700 lawyers and business professionals collaborate with the world's most successful enterprises and entrepreneurs to navigate change, seize opportunities and help drive innovation and growth.