Does FDCC Ladder Down work?

Yes! FDCC Ladder Down is unique in structure and content has proven results with measurable success over the last 12 years. The year-long structure, accountability sessions, and individualized coaching set FDCC Ladder Down apart from other programs for women lawyers. Program participants report increased client relationships, greater community involvement, appointments to leadership roles, increased compensation, promotions to partner and shareholder within their firm, numerous speaking engagements and article publications, a feeling of empowerment over their careers, expansion of their referral network, better self-advocacy skills, and improved relationships with existing clients.

What are the philosophical foundations for FDCC Ladder Down?
  1. Individual empowerment
  2. Women helping other women succeed
  3. Commitment to sustained change
  4. Paying it forward
  5. Promoting diversity
  6. Quality instruction
What are the FDCC Ladder Down program essentials?
  1. Leadership Development (2 large group sessions)
  2. Business Development “Boot Camp” (4 large group sessions)
  3. Mentoring (1 large group session)
  4. Accountability (6 small group sessions)
  5. 4 panel sessions with local leaders (rainmakers, corporate counsel, judicial, and law firm leaders)
What is the FDCC Ladder Down process?
  1. Monthly large group interactive sessions
  2. Homework assignments
  3. Small group accountability sessions
  4. Practical opportunities to try out new skills
  5. Individual commitment to attend sessions in person
What is the cost of the National Ladder Down Program?

The registration fee for the 2025 FDCC Ladder Down national program will be $1,750. Registration for our 2025 nationwide program is now OPEN! The program brochure and application are available here:  https://www.ladderdown.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2025-National-Ladder-Down-Brochure-and-Application.pdf The deadline to apply is March 7, 2025.

What is the cost of Ladder Down 2.0?

The registration fee for the 2025 FDCC Ladder Down 2.0 program will be $1,750. Registration for our 2025 nationwide program is now OPEN! The program brochure and application are available here: Ladder Down 2.0- 2025 Application and Brochure The deadline to apply is January 3, 2025.

How can our company become a FDCC Ladder Down sponsor?
We are always looking for new sponsors and are grateful for any contributions to the program! There are several recognized sponsorship levels available, but donations in any amount are welcome.

Updated information coming soon!

How can I apply for the program?

Applications are now being accepted for the 2025 Ladder Down 2.0 program!  The last day to apply is January 3, 2025.  This program will be entirely virtual and will be open to participants from anywhere in the country!.  The brochure application for 2025 Ladder Down 2.0 can be found here:

Applications are now being accepted for the 2025 FDCC National Ladder Down national program! The last day to apply is March 7, 2025. This program will be entirely virtual and will be open to participants from anywhere in the country! The brochure and application for the 2025 FDCC National Ladder Down program can be found here: 2025 National Ladder Down Brochure and Application.

For information about the individual program running in Cleveland, please contact Kelley Barnett at kelley.barnett@amtrustgroup.com

Are there any restrictions based upon experience level for FDCC Ladder Down participants?

No. Ladder Down is open to women for all stages of practice. We have had graduates with less than one year of experience, and others with over twenty. The skills taught in the Ladder Down sessions are valuable to women regardless of their experience and we do not restrict admission based upon years in practice.