Diversity

As a law firm that thrives on change while serving a progressive clientele, we are well aware of the value that diverse viewpoints, diverse experiences, and diverse backgrounds bring to an organization. And while many businesses seek to put diversity on the agenda, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati considers it a vital thread that runs through the fabric of our firm, lending a vibrancy to our workforce that benefits employees and clients alike.

The firm's leadership actively promotes diversity as a core value and top priority. We aim to attract, mentor, and retain the best legal talent from all backgrounds, and foster a culture in which all employees are empowered to achieve their maximum potential. Our internal and external programs and policies, as well as our continually growing minority numbers, reflect this commitment. Currently, nearly a third of our partners and half of our associates are women or belong to a racial, ethnic, or gender minority group.

Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati frequently has been recognized for its commitment to diversity. In 2005, for the third consecutive year, the firm received top rankings in Minority Law Journal's Diversity Scorecard. Among the nation's 250 largest law firms, we ranked second for "Highest Percentage of Minority Partners" (14.9 percent). We took the No. 6 spot for "Highest Percentage of Minority Attorneys" (20.9 percent), and No. 4 for "Highest Percentage of Asian Americans" (14.4 percent).

Additionally, the firm has been recognized for its local-level diversity efforts. Over the past three years, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati has ranked among the top firms in California for highest percentage of minority attorneys. In Texas, after having received high grades in previous years, we were awarded in 2005 with the grade of "A" from the Hispanic Bar Association of Austin and on the Austin Black Lawyers Association's Annual Report Card.

Not only does the firm benefit from great diversity among our own partners and associates, but so, too, does the entire legal industry. With our forward-looking policies and continual attempts to improve our diversity programs, we help set the tone for hiring and promoting women and minorities in both partner and management positions throughout the legal profession.