Diversity, Equity + Inclusion
Patterson + Sheridan is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, because we know that our firm is stronger — and our clients benefit — when a multitude of perspectives are not only welcome at the table, but encouraged at all levels of practice and leadership.
A cornerstone of our firm’s culture is respect for every individual regardless of race, color, religion, pregnancy, nationality, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran or marital status, disability or any other cultural factor.
Our long-term goal is to recruit, retain and promote talented intellectual property professionals who represent our industries, communities and the various walks of life that bring them all together.
Pioneering actionable diversity with measurable goals
Patterson + Sheridan is proud to participate in Diversity Lab’s inaugural Mansfield Rule for Midsize Firms initiative, which is intended to build a stronger and better legal community through diversity and inclusion. As part of its participation, the firm pledges that at least 30% of the candidates considered for firm positions will be from historically underrepresented communities. This objective applies to new hires, partner promotions, leadership roles and the makeup of client pitch teams.
The recurring, 18-month program includes periodic check-ins on measurable objectives, as well as collaboration with other participating law firms who share our values for promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the law. Patterson + Sheridan is one of only about two dozen firms piloting this meaningful national project.
PATTERSON + SHERIDAN CULTURE
Putting our money where our values are
Our firm commits to a gift-matching program for employees who donate to nonprofit organizations that make a positive difference in our communities. In addition, Patterson + Sheridan has pledged to double its match of employee donations to organizations focused on social and racial justice issues.
Recruiting and mentoring a variety of candidates
It’s a priority of our firm’s recruiting committee to identify the best and brightest candidates from all backgrounds. That’s why we recruit at minority job fairs, connect with bar association diversity programs and participate in law school initiatives that match diverse law school students with firms offering internships.
The work doesn’t stop there, however. Patterson + Sheridan’s mentoring program pairs diverse first-year associates with partners who help the young lawyers transition into the firm and support their career goals.
Patterson + Sheridan is proud to participate in Diversity Lab’s inaugural Mansfield Rule for Midsize Firms initiative, which is intended to build a stronger and better legal community through diversity and inclusion. As part of its participation, the firm pledges that at least 30% of the candidates considered for firm positions will be from historically underrepresented communities. This objective applies to new hires, partner promotions, leadership roles and the makeup of client pitch teams.
The recurring, 18-month program includes periodic check-ins on measurable objectives, as well as collaboration with other participating law firms who share our values for promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the law. Patterson + Sheridan is one of only about two dozen firms piloting this meaningful national project.
Promoting a fair and respectful profession that values everyone
As a full-service technology firm with offices across the country, we are always seeking opportunities to be a positive influence in our growing industry — and that includes being a voice for fairness and representation.
As a firm, we’re proud to support the individual efforts of our employees to create a more unified and welcoming industry. Many of our attorneys volunteer, support and serve in leadership positions for organizations that further diversity, equity and inclusion in our profession, including:
- IPO D&I Committee
- IPO Women in IP Committee
- Hispanic Bar Association of Houston
- Mexican American Bar Association of Houston
- American Bar Association’s Judicial Internship Opportunity Program
- Coalition of Houston Diverse Bar Associations
- National Hispanic Bar Association
- Houston Bar Association D&I Committee
- Houston Young Lawyers Association First Generation Lawyers Committee
- Hispanic Law Student Organizations at the University of Houston Law
- Center, South Texas College of Law, and Thurgood Marshall School of Law
