Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP

Vault’s Verdict: Dewey & LeBoeuf associates are generally happy with their lot. They are perhaps unique in BigLaw in that they have few complaints about the hours and the work-life balance—outside, that is, of what they expected of BigLaw in general—and most report a positive and pleasant firm culture, with excellent associate/partner relations and training.

Associate Life

Satisfaction
•  "In the LA office of our firm, we have a pretty small litigation department so our cases are thinly staffed and junior attorneys get to take on a significant amount of responsibility. The downside is that the cases are not always as big as the ones coming out of NYC, but I get to do things (e.g. drafting pleadings, having a lot of say in substantive arguments) that my counterparts in NYC won't get to do until one or two years down the road."
•  "I am given a great deal of responsibility and much is expected of me. I feel my input is highly valued."
•  "I've gotten a great amount and variety of work, and have not been stuck doing vast quantities of nothing but drudge work, as some of my peers complain. Early access to substantive work and direct contact with clients and opposing counsel (pardon the adversarial phrasing--I'm corporate, not litigation) has provided plenty of learning experience and good exposure. Hours can be long (it's better to be busy than not), but are manageable and haven't disrupted too many weekend/holiday plans."
•  "If you told me I could keep this job forever, I'd definitely take it."