Leading our field,
serving our world.

As one of the world’s top law firms, service is at the heart of everything we do — not only for our clients, but also for our people and communities. At Kirkland, we devote significant time and resources to providing pro bono legal services; championing diversity, equity and inclusion; enhancing health and wellbeing within the legal profession; and promoting environmental sustainability.

Diversity, equity and inclusion

We believe in fostering an environment of belonging where everyone feels valued. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives permeate all facets of our Firm — from establishing a culture and policies that embrace and support varied backgrounds, experiences and ideas, to tackling legal work that advances civil rights and equality in greater society.

Diversity, equity and inclusion

Pro bono legal work

We have a rich history of high-impact pro bono legal work that defends civil rights and helps people navigate the judicial system, including guiding asylum seekers through immigration proceedings, protecting voting rights, reforming the criminal justice system and advising small business owners facing economic hardships.

Pro bono legal work

Wellbeing

At Kirkland, we're focused on the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of our attorneys and staff. The Kirkland Wellbeing Program — one of the industry’s most comprehensive — educates personnel, destigmatizes discussion of mental health topics and provides pathways to support.

Wellbeing

Sustainability

As climate change and sustainability topics dominate headlines and increasingly influence the flow of global capital, our focus on environmental stewardship has also grown. We pursue initiatives to operate more sustainably and help our clients navigate the opportunities and challenges within this increasingly critical area.

Sustainability

Looking back as we look ahead

In an era defined by a global pandemic, racial and social injustice, and a mounting climate crisis, we have strengthened our longstanding commitment to building a better and more resilient future for our people, our clients, the legal profession and the global community.

January 2019

Wellbeing program launch

Kirkland Wellbeing Program

January 2019

Kirkland launches Wellbeing Program to provide comprehensive physical, emotional and mental health resources to personnel.

COVID-19 Small Business Support

May 2020

The Firm creates pro bono legal project to help small business owners navigate government stimulus options during the pandemic.

$5M Pledge

June 2020

Kirkland pledges $5 million over five years to support organizations focused on ending racism and advancing social justice.

ESG & Impact Launch

September 2020

Kirkland launches ESG & Impact as a standalone practice group with a commitment to building a first-class, dedicated team in this growing area.

Historic Win for Equal Education

June 2021

Partner Mike Jones reaches landmark $577 million settlement for Maryland’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

$12.5M Donation to Advance Civil Rights

November 2021

Kirkland announces donation to support HBCUs, nonprofits and organizations advancing racial justice, equity and civil rights.

Afghan Refugee Pro Bono Clinic

February 2022

Kirkland organizes pioneering virtual legal clinic to help Afghan refugees with adjustment-of-status and asylum applications.

Supporting Ukrainians in America

April 2022

The Firm leads project helping Ukrainians in the U.S. apply for Temporary Protected Status.

Awards &
Recognition

We’re honored to be recognized for our efforts.

American Lawyer
A-List

American Lawyer, 2011-2022

Beacon of Justice Award

National Legal Aid & Defender Association, 2020-2022

Empire Whole Health Heroes Awards

Crain’s New York Business, 2020

DEI Framework

Bloomberg, 2021

Corporate Equality Index

Human Rights Campaign, 2006-2022

FT North America Innovative Lawyers - Wellbeing

Financial Times, 2021

Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards

North America: Chambers & Partners, 2021

Pro Bono and Community Service Awards

The Law Society of Hong Kong, 2021

Robert F. Mullen Pro Bono Award

The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, 2021