Career Center: Law Firm Life Outside of the City That Never Sleeps

Not all of the players in the Biglaw scene are based in New York City. Check out the firms below that established their roots outside the Big Apple. True, total compensation at these firms is sometimes lower, and you may not earn the respect of Partner Emeritus — but the majority of associates surveyed who work at these firms seem to enjoy the lifestyle and opportunities their respective firms offer. You can view the profiles of other firms at the Career Center to see how associates rated their experiences in the past year at each firm.

  • This Boston-based firm has been around for more than 150 years and continues to grow. While the firm is typically a follower and matches market in terms of associate compensation, Lateral Link Members lament that the firm operates within a “black box,” and management is not very transparent with decisions. Still, associates appreciate the “wonderful formal training” offered, as well as the responsibility they receive.
  • Making partner at this firm, based in Seattle, is an achievable goal, according to most of the associates we surveyed. Even if you do not make partner your first go-around, there is no up-or-out policy, and the firm has a very flexible partnership policy. While associate compensation is lower relative to other Biglaw firms, the firm is one of the few law firms consistently recognized on Fortune Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For”.

More profiles, after the jump.

  • Though not always the southern belle, associates at this Atlanta-based firm note there are “no screamers” here, and describe the firm as “a good mid-level niche with high-level clients.” Lateral Link Members report that some partners were de-equitized during the economic meltdown in addition to associate layoffs; however, morale is “getting better.” Additionally, the firm receives high marks from its associates for its commitment to pro bono work.
  • This firm is one of California’s oldest law firms, which Lateral Link Insiders describe as “genuinely friendly” and a “great place to work.” The firm has a “Talent Model” compensation system for associates and is no longer a lockstep firm. Lateral Link Members report that face time really depends on which partners you work for, but the firm encourages its associates to utilize their time off for vacations and family leave.

Want to learn more about other leading law firms around the country? Check out the Career Center, powered by Lateral Link.

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