Associate Life
Vault’s Verdict: Wachtell associates practically beam when discussing the high-profile work and collegial culture at their firm.

Satisfaction
• “If you find law firm work interesting and are willing to put in the hours -- and that's understandably a big "if" -- this is hands-down the place to be. The work is cutting-edge, complicated and high-profile; the attorneys, almost without exception, are highly intelligent, competent and dedicated; and the pay and perks are great. Everything you'd want out of a New York law firm.” – senior associate
• “I'm incredibly satisfied with my job at Wachtell Lipton. I came to Wachtell from another top New York firm, and the decision to move was, by far, the best decision I've ever made. We're not as leveraged here compared to other firms, which means that associates get to do more here than they would at other firms, and partners want to hear the views of even the most junior associates. In short, you get to be a real lawyer here, which isn't always the case at New York firms.” – a litigator
• “Yes, I work very hard, but it's exciting to work those extra hours when the work is high-profile, my responsibility, exposure, and compensation are leaps and bounds above my peers, and my colleagues are uniformly and impressively talented. – midlevel associate