Diversity & Inclusion

A Diverse and Inclusive Environment

Understanding that it is the diverse ideas and contributions of our people that drive us to be an innovative, responsive and dynamic law firm at which to work – and to work with – Parsons Behle & Latimer strives each day to cultivate an environment of diversity, equity and inclusion at every level. We celebrate that in this environment, divergent viewpoints and life experiences combine to allow us to effectively solve our clients’ legal challenges while creating opportunities for all within our firm to grow and prosper. Parsons’ dedicated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion elevates our culture, potential for growth for all team members and consistent positive outcomes for our clients.  

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee

Parsons’ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) committee is chaired by Christina M. Jepson, shareholder and former department chair of the Employment & Labor team. The inclusive DE&I committee consists of a diverse group of shareholders, associates and professional staff. The committee is responsible for leading ongoing diversity and inclusion initiatives within the firm; identifying future initiatives that will benefit the firm and by extension, our clients; providing education for firm members and leadership; and identifying DE&I organizations with whom to partner in each of our six office locations.

Recruiting and Outreach

Parsons actively recruits with a focus on diverse backgrounds and breadth of experience from shareholders to professional staff. We aim to create an equitable and supportive environment in which people of every gender, age, race, religion, disability, sexual preference and gender identity can succeed.  In other outreach efforts, shareholders and associates donate their time and talents as adjunct professors, mentors and advisors to an inclusive group of law students in all geographic areas.

With an emphasis on equity, Parsons’ attorneys dedicate their expertise to a wide range of community boards and committees where they can gain a clear understanding of diversity issues within our community and use their talents to create solutions. A small sampling of these include:   

Utah Center for Legal Inclusion

Parsons is a cofounding member and financial investor of the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI), and is currently working toward UCLI certification. Our partnership with UCLI provides the firm with training and the necessary tools to address existing and future hiring and retention; and advancement and inclusion challenges for women and other diverse attorneys and professionals. UCLI is committed to inspiring and empowering students with diverse backgrounds to pursue legal education and careers. It’s Community Outreach Committee builds partnerships with local businesses and Chambers of Commerce to raise awareness and build support for legal inclusion efforts. One of its key missions is to support and encourage professional advancement for diverse attorneys.