As the Biglaw industry continues to recalibrate post-pandemic work norms, Goodwin, ranking No. 19 on the Am Law 100 with a reported gross revenue of over $2.4 billion in 2024, has announced a significant shift in its office attendance policy. Starting January 5, 2026, Goodwin attorneys will be required to work from the office Monday through Thursday, with Fridays remaining flexible for remote work or office attendance. This move aligns Goodwin with several other top law firms enforcing a return to the office amid ongoing debates about workplace flexibility and culture.

In a memo circulated among employees and viewed by Above the Law, Goodwin emphasized its commitment to "doubling down on the power of presence," signaling a strong belief in the benefits of in-person collaboration. However, the firm also acknowledges the importance of flexibility in modern work dynamics. To ease the transition, Goodwin is introducing additional measures, including an extra work-from-anywhere week between Christmas and New Year, and a new re-entry program named Thrive Back for colleagues returning from leave.

The firm's approach seeks to balance professional obligations with personal life, allowing for necessary focus time, medical appointments, and family events. This policy echoes a broader trend among prestigious law firms, including A&O Shearman, Cooley, and Davis Polk, which have also instituted similar four-day office requirements. Notably, Sullivan & Cromwell has opted for an even more stringent five-day office policy, underscoring the varied approaches across the sector.

The response from the legal community to these changes has been mixed, with some advocates for remote work citing concerns about work-life balance and the potential impacts on productivity and employee satisfaction. Conversely, proponents of increased office presence argue that it fosters better teamwork, mentoring opportunities, and overall firm culture.

Goodwin's new policy and its accompanying flexibility initiatives will be closely watched as the legal industry continues to navigate the evolving expectations of its workforce. As more firms announce their attendance policies, the impact on recruitment, retention, and firm culture will likely become significant points of discussion within the legal community.

For those affected by or interested in office attendance policies at various firms, Above the Law remains a crucial resource for updates and insights. Readers are encouraged to share information about office reopening plans confidentially to help track this shifting landscape.