It appears the era of flexible work arrangements is tightening in the legal sector, as Cooley, a prominent Biglaw firm, announces a new mandate requiring its associates to work from the office four days a week starting January 1, 2026. This policy will be applicable to all attorneys across the firm's U.S. and European offices, marking a significant shift in work culture as the new year rolls in.

Cooley, which reported a gross revenue of over $2 billion in 2024, is joining a growing list of top law firms adopting stricter office attendance policies. Firms like Davis Polk, Latham, and Paul Weiss have already implemented similar mandates, requiring lawyers to spend the majority of their workweek within office premises.

Interestingly, some of Cooley's Asian offices have already been operating under a five-day in-office workweek, suggesting a trend that might catch on globally as firms continue to recalibrate their operational strategies post-pandemic.

The trend is not isolated. Other major players in the legal industry, including Ropes & Gray, Simpson Thacher, and Skadden, are also enforcing four-day office mandates. At the extreme, Sullivan & Cromwell has escalated the requirement to all five weekdays, underscoring a significant pivot back to pre-pandemic norms.

Legal industry insiders and associates are encouraged to share insights or official memos regarding office reopening plans. As firms across the spectrum tighten their in-office requirements, the legal community watches closely, adapting to the evolving landscape of work in Biglaw.

For more detailed coverage, readers can refer to the original reporting by the American Lawyer, which discusses the specifics of Cooley's new policy and broader industry trends.