Corporate social responsibility : a case study of law firms in Malta

Abstract

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become increasingly popular in company reporting, with many organizations adopting CSR strategies and publishing annual reports documenting their actions. This study focuses on the uptake of CSR in Maltese law firms, as there is currently no data available on CSR practices in this sector within the country. The aim of the research is to understand the barriers and incentives for CSR in Maltese law firms. Interviews and questionnaires were conducted with relevant personnel from multiple law firms in Malta. The findings show that the size of the law firm is related to its approach to CSR, notably the number of projects done. There are several incentives for CSR implementation, including societal impact, employee welfare, environmental responsibility, public relations, talent attraction, and cost savings. Law firms in Malta participate in comparable CSR efforts, with charity donations and pro bono work being the most common. Differentiation may be created by creating one-of-a-kind projects that are in line with the firm's principles. The study emphasizes the need for a better understanding of the importance of CSR in order to persuade more law firms to engage. The study's findings give insights into the motives for implementing CSR practices and can help Maltese law firms overcome implementation difficulties. Policymakers can benefit from greater knowledge of the barriers to CSR adoption in order to establish campaigns that promote socially responsible behaviour. Further study is recommended to delve deeper into the hurdles and motivations, as well as to broaden CSR adoption in the legal profession and across other corporate sectors. Conducting in-depth studies on barriers and incentives, making CSR required for bigger organizations with reporting requirements, and employing the Social Return-on-Investment (SROI) are some of the recommendations. Implementing these guidelines can help firms expand CSR adoption and create more social value.