摘要：Considerable controversy surrounds partnership in law firms, particularly regarding the possibility of systematic gender bias and discrimination. This article contributes to the existing literature by considering explanations of women's under-representation in partnerships within the historical context of changes in the structure of law practice. Such changes include transitions in the organization and scale of contemporary law firms, the emergence of branch offices and international markets, the diversification of recruitment practices and mobility routes through modified firm hierarchies, and rising expectations of billable hours. Using a survey of over 1,000 lawyers in Ontario law firms, the authors examine opportunities for partnership in terms of individual resources, firm characteristics, economic climate, and women's representation in law practice. The findings of this study reveal a profession undergoing rapid structural transformation involving reduced partnership opportunities for women and men, with women faring worse than men in this competition. The authors assess causes of this gender disparity and suggest policy recommendations toward the achievement of gender equality in law firms.
