City firms mandate in-office work and introduce blackout Fridays

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Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP has introduced a four-day in-office work policy, meaning lawyers in the firm’s London office are expected to come into the office at least four days a week.

On top of bringing the London office in line with the firm’s US colleagues, the firm has said that the policy is designed to support lawyer’s training, while also improving office morale and professional development.

Weil has joined other US firms asking staff to come into the office four days a week, including Vinson & Elkins RLLP and Ropes & Gray International LLP. The policy came into effect from 4 September.

Meanwhile, City law firm Kingsley Napley LLP has revealed plans to switch lights off and close two and a half of the six floors in its office at 20 Bonhill Street on Fridays. The firm’s in-house café will also have reduced opening hours, closing at 2:00pm and offering a condensed menu.

It’s hoped the move will demonstrate the firm’s commitment to flexible working and has been described by Jemimah Cook, the firm’s HR director, as a “win-win for the environment and our cost base at the same time”.

It’s been predicted that the firm will save around £100,000 each year on energy, cleaning and maintenance costs.