Magic circle firm has rolled out flexible working to everyone at the firm no matter how long they have been employed. Lawyers will not need to explain why they have requested flexible working.

The firm said the update goes beyond a statutory requirements that someone has to have been employed for 26 weeks to be eligible to make a request. Linklaters aim is to remove any stereotyping or challenges that may exist around who can work flexibly.

Nick Porter, partner and chair of London people committee at Linklaters, said: ‘We believe that agile working is for everyone and that the right to request formal flexible working should be open to all.

‘There isn’t a one size fits all model and people across our offices are finding the right flexibility for their roles and life. More importantly, we know that helping people to reach their life and work goals makes them happier, healthier and more motivated.’

The firm has offered agile working since 2015 and in 2017 piloted career scheme that would allow associates to take a pay cut in order to work reduced hours.