On July 9, Fennemore announced a new platform, Fennemore Forward, that will allow its attorneys to work permanently from nearly anywhere in the world, with 19 brick-and-mortar offices.
“Forward is emblematic of Fennemore’s commitment to building the business law firm of the future,” said James Goodnow, Fennemore’s CEO, in a press release. “Our vision with Forward is to challenge and transform the traditional law firm model. The prevailing BigLaw view seems to be that the only way to build culture is to force everyone onsite nearly every day. This view is antiquated, fails to meet people where they are in life, and leads to a limiting one-size-fits-all view of the profession. The profession can and must do better. The truth is that technology, targeted in-person activities, and creative workflow approaches can foster an environment that leads to stronger bonds than the traditional environment—and better results for our clients.”
The program equips attorneys with a suite of tools and resources that aim to enhance collaboration, foster a strong firm culture and streamline operations, according to the press release.
Resources available in the program include paraprofessional assistance, administrative help, an IT platform, marketing and business development support, professional development opportunities, access to conference rooms and offices of any of the firm’s 19 physical offices in six states and opportunities to attend in-person firm and practice group retreats and events.
Chris Wilson, Forward’s managing director, has previously developed remote work programs for law firms. He was managing director of the remote program at Taylor English, where he recruited and managed more than 50 attorneys, and he was the Atlanta managing partner at Fisher Boyles, a distributed law firm in the U.S.
“Forward is a bold statement that Fennemore is leading the legal profession into a new era, seamlessly weaving the strengths of a respected, traditional firm with the adaptability of the future of work,” said Wilson in a press release. “While many firms cling to traditional office models, Fennemore’s culture embraces flexibility, technology, and innovation. This approach enhances lawyer well-being and productivity, meets evolving client demands, and contributes to a sustainable world.”
Boston-based Forward attorney David McCarville said in a press release that the program has given him the flexibility to work from anywhere, boosted his productivity and increased his connections with colleagues and clients.
“The resources provided ensure I remain fully integrated with our brick and mortar operations, enabling me to move to a location that better suits my family’s needs while continuing to provide high-quality legal services to my clients.”
Katherine Kao, a Forward attorney based in Portland, shared her experience of the program in a press release.
“With Fennemore Forward, I was able to purchase a home and live in an affordable city while staying connected with my colleagues and clients, no matter where they are located,” said Kao. “Fennemore’s trust in its employees to perform at a high level, combined with the freedom to lead fulfilling lives outside of work, makes a career here not only sustainable but also enjoyable.”
CORRECTION NOTE: This article was updated on July 9 to reflect the correct spelling of Chris Wilson’s and David McCarville’s names. Law Week regrets the error.