Pros
The firm offers a variety of benefits for full time employees. The health insurance is reasonably competitive in the law firm market. Because the firm is a more prestigious firm in most of its locations, there is some respect that goes with being an employee or alum. Most lawyers are very good at what they do. Many employees treat their coworkers like family, and it is easy to find a “home” within the firm.
Cons
The firm used to be a “Best Company to Work For” for several years but has taken a sharp decline in workplace culture and benefits in the last few years. The diversity and women’s initiatives only apply to attorneys; staff is not invited to participate. Most non-attorneys are underpaid for the jobs they do. Many employees receive “promotions” in both title and responsibility without any pay increases. Merit increases are unheard of for staff, and bonuses are minimal. The firm’s Human Resources is draconian, only offering flexibility to the highest ranking members. Current employees are required to come into the office even if they are Covid-symptomatic or have Covid-positive family members at home unless and until they themselves have a positive Covid test. The firm values face time in the office more than productivity. Many “chiefs” and “directors” are micro-managers, stifling the talents and innovation of their teams.