We understand that success is measured not only in the recruitment of attorneys and professionals with diverse backgrounds, but in their development, advancement and retention. Baker & Daniels strongly supports retention initiatives and commits significant resources toward the retention of our talented professionals. The firm's diversity audit by Novations Group included a series of retention recommendations which are being implemented by the firm, in addition to the existing retention initiatives Baker & Daniels already had in place.
Mentoring Program
Baker & Daniels has a sophisticated mentoring structure designed to maximize opportunities for our younger professionals. Upon joining the firm, associates are assigned a coach/mentor who works closely with the associate to ensure that he or she is happy and comfortable at Baker & Daniels, both personally and professionally. The diversity committee is actively involved in these pairings and works to thoughtfully match each associate with the most appropriate partner based on personality, background and professional interest. Counsel and partners are also offered peer coaches to assist with business development initiatives.
The firm also offers a business development curriculum that provides professionals with more than 35 courses throughout their partnership track in order to provide them with skills and tools for a successful, client-focused law practice. Programs are divided by associate class and cover everything from financial basics to contact management to information on different areas of practice within the firm.
Domestic Partner Benefits
Baker & Daniels has long provided domestic partner benefits on medical and dental coverage and was the first major law firm in Indianapolis to do so. Benefits now also include COBRA, Employee Assistance Program and bereavement benefits to qualified domestic partners.
Reduced Hours Program
In an effort to attract and retain the most diverse group of professionals possible, the firm has adopted a formal policy that permits attorneys, irrespective of gender, to work reduced hours established on an individual basis while continuing to advance toward partnership. We believe this approach allows the firm to retain some of its most promising attorneys.
Mothers Programs
Baker & Daniels offers mothers rooms in all offices for our female professionals. The firm also offers 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity/adoption leave, as well as an additional 12 weeks unpaid leave with guaranteed job security upon the employee's return. The firm also offers flexible/reduced hours schedules to partners, counsel and associates and includes reduced hours professionals in all mentoring and professional development programs. Baker & Daniels also has satellite arrangements in place for several professionals. The firm strives to be accommodating to parents, understanding that work-life balance is an important aspect of employee satisfaction and retention.