Merle Vaughn, managing director and national law firm diversity practice leader at legal recruiting giant Major, Lindsey & Africa, says she has seen an uptick in firm interest in hiring Black lateral partners since May, when the murder of George Floyd sparked protests and conversations about racial injustice around the country. 

Michelle Crockett, the new chief diversity officer at Miller Canfield, says she has been fielding more inquiries from Black partners who are looking to join her firm, signaling an awareness of that increased interest in hiring diverse laterals.

Michelle Crockett Michelle Crockett, of Miller Canfield.