Blackwell Sanders LLP

Blackwellies seem basically happy with their work but worried about the bottom line and their prospects. A midlevel litigator says "I generally like the work I do and am pleased about the opportunities I have had to gain experience and develop my skills" but goes on to say that "I think management overemphasizes hours and undervalues associates and their ability to contribute anything to the firm other than billable hours." Another says that "associates and partners within my practice group get along well, but the overall firm culture is very revenue oriented' which creates pressure and competitiveness among associates." Associates note that "the firm is structured more like a business than a traditional law firm, which means many of the decision-making processes are much more efficient than in a traditional firm." But a more senior associate says that "although the work is great, your potential to advance to partner is not."

The billable hours target is 1,900; a midlevel reports that "I have worked significantly more than that this year" but "I feel that my extra work has been noticed and appreciated." On compensation, reviews are mixed: a junior thinks that "compensation is at or near the highest for the area" but a midlevel notes that "the number of firms paying more than BSPM is growing and this should be addressed.