In a notable shift from broader industry trends, DLA Piper, one of the world’s leading law firms, has now mandated that its U.S. corporate attorneys increase their in-office presence to four days each week, up from the previous three-day requirement. This decision marks a significant move, given that most of DLA Piper's previous attendance policies applied uniformly across all practice groups.

The firm, which generated a staggering $4,239,832,000 in gross revenue in 2024 and ranks third on the Am Law 100 list, attributes this policy change to a need for enhanced collaboration and mentorship opportunities within its corporate practice. Andrew Gilbert, the U.S. corporate practice chair at DLA Piper, emphasized that the additional in-office day would foster a stronger culture of collaboration, crucial for the growth and development of their attorneys.

Frank Ryan, DLA Piper’s global co-chair and CEO, noted to Law.com that the adjustment came in response to a mix of factors including associate feedback and an increase in workload, suggesting that "for the corporate group, it felt like a good time to do this.”

This move by DLA Piper comes at a time when several other prominent Biglaw firms have also set a four-day office attendance requirement. Notable names include Davis Polk, Latham, Paul Weiss, Ropes & Gray, Simpson Thacher, and Skadden, among others. Sullivan & Cromwell has even pushed the envelope further by requiring five office days weekly.

The impact of DLA Piper’s new mandate on other practice areas within the firm remains to be seen, as the company has not yet announced any changes to other departments’ attendance policies.

As the legal industry continues to adapt to post-pandemic realities, the balance between remote and in-office work remains a dynamic and evolving issue. DLA Piper's targeted approach with its corporate lawyers highlights the firm's strategy to tailor work environments specifically to enhance productivity and teamwork in critical practice areas.

For more updates on office attendance policies across various firms, stay tuned to industry news. If you are aware of changes in your firm, you are encouraged to share insights while maintaining anonymity.