"from the role of managers to the mental load of Biglaw parents, these articles bring research, clinical insight, and practical strategies to help lawyers and the firms that employ them navigate one of the most critical transitions of their careers. For Alison, while her pregnancy filled her with excitement, the idea of sharing it at her firm filled her with dread. She worried about how she would be perceived and the assumptions that others would make about her dedication to the firm."
"the months before parental leave are marked not just by excitement about a growing family, but by a gnawing anxiety: How will I navigate this alongside my career? Even at firms with generous leave policies, many lawyers fear being seen as less invested as soon as they share the news that they are expecting. They worry about client continuity, missing out on key matters, or being sidelined when they return.The pressure to demonstrate commitment can make planning for leave feel like a high-stakes negotiation."
"Individuals cannot eliminate the motherhood penalty on their own, but with foresight, strategy, and boundaries, it is possible to take meaningful time away without hurting your professional reputation or relationships. 1. Start Early and Be Proactive One mistake we see expecting parents make is waiting until the last minute to plan. This is an understandable impulse, but earlier notice gives you more control."
Lawyers planning parental leave often fear negative perceptions about commitment, worrying about client continuity, missing key matters, or being sidelined. Even generous firm policies do not eliminate anxiety about career impact. Individuals cannot erase the motherhood penalty alone, but careful planning, clear boundaries, and strategic communication can preserve reputation and relationships while allowing meaningful time away. Starting early and being proactive enables creation of robust coverage plans and better control over workload transitions. Early planning reduces negotiation pressure and supports smoother reintegration after leave.
Read at Above the Law
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