Nepotism, or perceived nepotism, is not necessarily unique to law firms. But it’s common in the industry given the smaller size of law firms compared to corporations, and the view held by many that law is a profession, not an industry.

While issues of perceived nepotism have cropped up recently at Boies Schiller Flexner, that is far from the only legal organization that has had to grapple with the delicate business of balancing the relationship between family members and the organization’s best interests. Courts and even law schools have been accused of nepotism, and hiring family is prevalent in many firms to this day big and small.