In addition, YLW recognizes firms that have demonstrated superior performance in specific categories, and Reed Smith received Category Honors in "Leadership and Promotions: Executive Committee Consisted of At Least 35% Women."

To compile the list, Yale Law Women surveyed firms on the 2018 Vault Top 100 Law Firms list. The survey collected data on family accommodations and parental leave, as well as indicators of gender equality in partnership promotions and composition of leadership committees.