Linklaters is to sound out clients about flexible working arrangements ahead of the formalisation of its own policy later this year.

The magic circle firm plans to consult with its top corporate and banking clients over a series of roundtable discussions in an attempt to get client support for the firm's lawyers working flexibly on transactions. Key partners in the firm's core practice areas will attend the discussions.

The client talks come as part of a wider review of Linklaters' flexible working strategy by the firm's executive committee. As part of the review the firm is considering issuing global principles for flexible working, which could work like a charter, with employees signing up. This initiative is being spearheaded by Linklaters' global head of human resources Jill King.

Employment partner Gillian Chapman, who will lead the firm's discussions over flexible working with clients, said: "We are keen to create a flexible working environment which helps our people balance their different responsibilities.

"We are keen to talk to our clients about this and share experiences about what works in different organisations; ultimately this is to help us retain our very best people and ensure we deliver a first-class service to clients."

A former Linklaters partner commented: "The firm has been struggling for some time to come up with a flexible working strategy that is fit for purpose and convincing clients is a key step. Clients will have to [support] the principle."