Ballard Spahr Ranks as a Top Firm in The American Lawyer LGBTQ+ Scorecard

Ballard Spahr ranks in the top 15 among the nation’s largest law firms in The American Lawyer’s recently released 2024 LGBTQ+ Scorecard.

Ballard Spahr comes in at number 14 among 223 large firms that reported LGBTQIA+ information to The American Lawyer, with more than 8 percent of the firm’s attorneys self-identifying as LGBTQIA+.

At Ballard Spahr, support for LGBTQIA+ colleagues, community, and causes starts at the top: Firm Chair Peter V. Michaud is hailed as a “pioneer” and “role model” for LGBTQIA+ lawyers.

“We’re proud to be recognized by The American Lawyer for our commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals at Ballard Spahr and the LGBTQIA+ community nationwide and worldwide,” Michaud said. “We have made diversity, equity, and inclusion a hallmark of our firm, and I’m a perfect example that people from traditionally underrepresented groups can thrive at Ballard and rise in firm leadership.”

Ballard Spahr’s business resource groups include Equality Ballard: LGBTQIA+ Colleagues and Allies, which provides opportunities for business development and pro bono outreach to the LGBTQIA+ community while promoting a supportive internal environment. Created in 2008, Equality Ballard was among the earliest law firm affinity groups for LGBTQIA+ attorneys. As part of the group’s efforts, lawyers across the firm provide pro bono service to LGBTQIA+ individuals and causes, including name changes, asylum representations, challenges to barriers to gender-affirming care, and support to nonprofits that support the LGBTQIA+ community.

Ballard Spahr’s diversity, equity, and inclusion commitment is informed by research, self-examination, and the evolving needs of lawyers, staff, and clients. The firm’s action plan includes dozens of initiatives across recruitment, retention, professional development, promotion, and firm leadership.

For media inquiries, please contact Bill Shralow at 215.864.8195.