For decades, Bowditch & Dewey has been at the forefront of the advancement of women in law firms. In 1955, Irene Gowetz became a named partner at the firm (then known as Bowditch, Gowetz and Lane) at a time when there were few women attorneys at major law firms, much less partners.  Jane Hawkes currently leads the firm’s Boston office, and was one of the first women to serve as Managing Partner of a major Massachusetts law firm.

 

In 2003, Bowditch & Dewey launched its “Women’s Initiative” with the goal of supporting the advancement and retention of women at the firm. The firm’s Leadership Committee is made up of key leaders of the firm who are tasked with insuring that the women of the firm are given every opportunity to advance and succeed. As part of these efforts, the firm adopted a Flexible Work Arrangements program which enables participating attorneys to balance the needs of their families with the demands of a legal career.  

 

In 2009, Bowditch & Dewey was given a Greatest Proven Impact award by Leading Women, an organization whose mission is to inspire and honor the success of women leaders. This award is given to organizations that have made a positive impact in advancement of women.