At Baker Botts, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is a commitment to ourselves, our clients, and our communities.  We are committed to fostering diversity in all its forms throughout the firm and within the greater legal industry. Our efforts are results-oriented, constantly evolving, and always in motion.

In 2023, the Firm’s robust DE&I efforts told a multi-faceted story of impact, action, growth, and a collective recommitment to doing hard things, especially during uncertain times. Our 2023 Diversity In Action Year In Review is available here.

Diversity is woven into the fabric of the firm and is one of our core values enabling us to provide exceptional service to our clients. Opportunities for historically underrepresented lawyers are addressed at every stage of a career at Baker Botts through access to quality work, avenues for career development, and opportunities for advancement to positions of leadership.

Our Diversity and Inclusion Committee is charged with firmwide efforts to reshape our DEI strategy and broaden opportunities for recruitment and retention through internal programming, affinity networks, and family-friendly offerings. In 2022, the firm appointed Heather Choi as Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer. Ms. Choi has spent her entire legal career at Baker Botts and has been witness to the growth and expansion of diversity efforts from her start here as a summer associate through her promotion to partner. She currently has responsibility for all aspects of the firm’s global equity and inclusion strategy. She works closely with the firm’s executive leadership to shape and implement strategy to drive institutional diversity and inclusion priorities. 

At Baker Botts DEI is a thread connecting all aspects of the firm. We take a comprehensive approach to how we recruit, retain, develop, and promote diverse lawyers and staff. We are proud that our dedication to DEI has been recognized by many outside organizations.

The real rewards of DEI processes, however, come through the environment and culture created within the firm. We remain committed to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive workplace where DEI is always in action.