The Legal 500

Russell Jones & Walker has been a champion for the rights of individuals for over 80 years nationwide and has been an instrumental force in the development of much of today's legislation regarding diversity and equality of opportunity.

We practice what we preach and we are an inclusive Firm that transcends gender, marital or civil partnership status, race, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, religion and age or disability boundaries in how we go about our business.

Diversity is at the heart of what we are about -the diversity of our people, our practice, our suppliers and our clients. We are ranked in the top of the 3 of the national diversity rankings produced by The Black Solicitors Network and continue as active members of Stonewall.

We have established sound equal opportunity policies and practices that foster an environment where individuals can feel valued, and develop their abilities and potential without the fear and barriers caused by discrimination.

Preconceptions and assumptions about people are damaging to the individual, the team they work in, and the Firm as a whole. We believe that it is essential that all employees, contractors and clients are treated in a manner that is fair, and that equitable consideration is given in all aspects of employment and business situations.

To this end, Russell Jones and Walker is committed to providing a work environment that respects diversity and is free from all forms of discrimination. It endeavours to make this commitment a reality by:

• Preventing any form of direct or indirect discrimination, victimisation, bullying or vilification;
• Promoting through role modelling, a harmonious working environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Intimidation or harassment is not tolerated in any form;
• Fulfilling all legal obligations;
• Ensuring our clients are treated in a fair and equitable manner in our dealings with them. Likewise, employees will be protected from harassment and discrimination in dealings with clients.

We recognise that our ability to maximise our performance is improved by having a diverse workforce who have the correct skills and understanding to achieve our objectives.

Our aim is to ensure that this Equality and Diversity Policy is applied in full on a fair and consistent basis across the Firm and its subsidiaries, and treated as an integral part of human resources, business planning and the delivery of all services that we provide.