“Chicago IP Firms Credit Diversity Efforts as Billable Hours” (featured quotes)

Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP recently announced it has joined the Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago (IPLAC) in introducing a billable hour credit for time spent on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. The firm’s chief talent and diversity officer, Shuhana Khan, spoke with World Trademark Review about the new policy, and its potential impacts. 

“Our team is encouraged to prioritise action over passive participation,” said Shuhana. These leadership activities, she explained, are part of the firm’s commitment to making a measurable impact. Activities like leading and/or helping organize firm recruitment efforts, hosting a DEI-focused event or Continuing Legal Education program, serving as a leader in a DEI-focused community or professional organization, and collaborating with clients on their DEI efforts are all activities Marshall Gerstein has identified as both measurable and meaningful enough to receive credit.

When asked about the factors that contributed to the firms decision to join IPLAC in this effort, Shuhana underscored that Marshall Gerstein’s most valuable asset is our human capital. She remarked that this initiative is a tangible investment behind our commitment to preserve a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture as a core value of the firm, and will reinforce existing efforts by encouraging others to participate and help make a difference.

To read the full article, "Chicago IP Firms Credit Diversity Efforts as Billable Hours" featuring Shuhana Khan, subscribers may visit World Trademark Review.