Lathrop & Gage LLP

If you're easygoing yet conscientious, you might like life at Lathrop. "Lawyers are very social and the atmosphere is laid-back; however, people know how to work hard." While some feel the firm has recently "shifted from friendly and laid-back to more billable-hour and bottom-line oriented," most agree that "there is a general camaraderie among associates." "Everyone in our office knows each other by their first name," reports one associate. Though "lawyers do not tend to socialize on a regular basis," one associate reports that "impromptu gatherings or lunches are well-attended." With an atmosphere that is almost universally described as "relaxed and collegial," it's clear that "the friendly and open culture of Lathrop is one of its strongest assets."

"Lathrop & Gage is not a 'face-time' firm," asserts one associate. "The firm is great about allowing members and associates to define their own work schedules and working from home or on the road." Another attorney agrees, stating "pressure to bill seems minimal, although I have heard of department heads making the rounds to prod newer associates whose hours are low." Still, it's not like Big Brother is watching. "No one cares what time you are at the office as long as you are billing enough hours and getting the work done." The 1850 billable hours requirement is considered "reasonable for a large firm."