Davis Polk has made extensive efforts to bring its attorneys back to the office after the pandemic. The firm initially mandated attendance from Tuesday to Thursday in 2022, preserving remote work flexibility for Mondays and Fridays. Followed by a revision to the in-office segment of its handbook this past spring, stating that associate bonuses might be influenced by their office attendance. In June, Davis Polk abandoned its three-day in-office attendance mandate in favor of a compulsory four-day office presence.
Recently, Neil Barr, the firm’s chair and managing partner, discussed Davis Polk’s New York lease renewal to the American Lawyer. The firm reportedly plans to add an extra 30,000 square feet to its office space, totalling more than 700,000 square feet across 23 floors. According to Barr, it’s due to the firm’s belief in becoming predominantly an ‘in-office’ firm and growth in headcount.
The decision comes despite several Biglaw firms attempting to reduce their office space. Davis Polk remains firm with the belief that the quality of office amenities should not determine whether or not employees need to show up. However, Barr believes that a modern, interactive, and upgraded office will improve the in-office experience for its employees.
Despite Davis Polk’s efforts to enhance the office space, concerns remain. The shift to a hybrid work environment has become evident in the modern law firm workplace. The insistence on lawyers being tethered to their office chairs, regardless of office improvements, raises questions about impacts on their mental well-being. Furthermore, tying their bonuses to compulsory office attendance could potentially generate resentment towards the firm.
Referring to the notion that law is a ‘profession in crisis’, law firms, particularly Biglaw firms, should prioritize their attorneys’ and staffers’ mental health and well-being over their real estate possessions. True flexibility, not more square footage, signifies a modern law firm workplace.
For an ‘exceptional experience’ for its attorneys, Davis Polk arguably needs to rethink its stance on being a ‘predominantly in-office firm’.