The policies and programs Dickstein Shapiro has in place encourage employees to do their best by providing them with a nurturing work environment. For example:

• In 2000, Dickstein Shapiro created the Core Values Award, which is presented to employees who exemplify the Firm’s Core Values of excellence, loyalty, respect, initiative, and integrity. The Firm makes a donation to a charity designated by the recipient, in appreciation for his or her hard work.
  
  
• The Firm provides excellent benefits packages and compensation, including merit-based raises and bonuses for staff. There is a generous leave policy for staff, including maternity and paternity leave as described above.
  
  
• Dickstein Shapiro has a policy for alternative work arrangements for attorneys, which is described above. In addition, staff can choose one of three work schedules to allow for flexibility.
  
  
• Each year, the Firm recognizes non-attorney staff with gifts and a special catered reception. During the reception, the Firm recognizes and provides special gifts for staff employed with the Firm for 10, 15, 20, and 25 years. The Firm also recognizes these employees with a floral arrangement on their “milestone” anniversary dates.
  
  
• The Firm sponsors “Bring Your Child to Work Day,” a day for attorneys and staff to bring their children (ages 8-12) to work with them. Sample activities during this day include mock trials, interviews, Firm tours, work participation, lunch and ice cream social, and surprise gifts for the children.
  
  
• Dickstein Shapiro sponsors social functions such as a holiday party, Firm picnic, and employee receptions. These activities, along with “lunch & learns” and other professional development opportunities, give everyone the chance to get to know each other personally and professionally.
  
  
• Dickstein Shapiro encourages employees to refer their friends and former colleagues to the Human Resources Department in order to fill open positions within the Firm. As an incentive, the Firm provides a bonus of $1,000 to each employee who refers a staff member once the referred staff member completes six months of employment. The Firm provides a bonus of $5,000 to each employee who refers an attorney when the attorney is hired and an additional $5,000 once the referred attorney completes six months of employment.