International law firm Simmons & Simmons has been recognised in the annual report from Lamp House, as a top five firm on its responsible business index out of 150 law firms globally.
The 2025 Lamp House report recognises those firms performing strongly in three pillars of “Planet, People and Governance”, following a comprehensive evaluation of business practices.
This includes commitments to social mobility, the environment and sustainability, and support for women, those from ethnic minority backgrounds and the LGBTQ+ community.
Simmons has made rapid progress over two years. In 2023, the firm was ranked 45th out of 50 firms. The firm’s recognition also comes in a year in which other firms have retreated from the responsible business agenda, particularly on sustainability and inclusivity commitments.
Recent successful initiatives and achievements from Simmons include:
- Setting ambitious social mobility targets: by 2029 in the UK, the firm aims for 20% of partners, 20% of managing associates, 20% of associates, 20% of trainees and 30% of business services to come from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
- Increasing representation of women; winning recognition for gender equality: in June, Simmons was named by The Times as a Top 50 Employer for Gender Equality. Women make up 32% of the international partnership – a figure that has more than doubled over 10 years. The firm has also set new female partner promotion targets – increasing to 50% by 2026.
- Increasing pro bono hours donated: this year the firm delivered over 13,800 hours pro bono to individuals, charities, not-for-profits and NGOs. Over the past three years, Simmons have seen a 25% increase in the hours donated to its pro bono practice and supported 104 charities and not-for-profits.
- Committing to science-based emissions reduction targets: the firm has set targets to reduce its absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030 and its Scope 3 emissions by 47% by 2030.
- Achieving recognition as an LGBTQ+ Top Global Employer: Simmons secured an LGBTQ+ inclusion “Silver” award in July, recognised for supporting colleagues in all areas of LGBTQ+ inclusion.
- Growing its firmwide mentoring programme: Simmons has successfully paired nearly 200 mentees with mentors, offering tailored support such as improving confidence and building resilience.
- Establishing a Responsible Business Board (RBB): chaired by Senior Partner Julian Taylor, the RBB advises on the integration of ESG considerations into the firm's policies, operations, and business strategy.
Julian Taylor, Senior Partner, commented: "This recognition reflects the fantastic progress Simmons has made in creating a positive impact for our people, clients, planet and communities. It’s been an outstanding collective effort across the firm. At a time when others have reneged on their commitments, we’re proud to be leading the way with our responsible business practices. We remain focused on driving further progress in the years ahead."
