Top Law Firms Ranked in Summer Associate Surveys and Memorable Events Revealed
Summer associates play a crucial role in the legal industry, gaining valuable experience and insight into the workings of top law firms. Recent surveys conducted by Law.com and Law360 Pulse have shed light on which firms are excelling in their summer associate programs, as well as the memorable events that these firms offer to their young associates.
Top Law Firms for Summer Associates
According to the surveys by Law.com and Law360 Pulse, two law firms stood out as the top choices for summer associates: Dentons and Paul Hastings. While there was some overlap in the top 10 rankings, with Morgan, Lewis & Bockius securing the third spot in both surveys, each ranking was based on different criteria.
The surveys revealed that summer associates were generously compensated, with an average weekly pay of $4,543. However, it was not just about the money for these associates. They also valued access to meaningful work and mentorship, placing a higher importance on these aspects than on the fun outings offered by their firms.
Memorable Events for Summer Associates
Despite the demanding nature of the legal profession, law firms understand the importance of creating memorable experiences for their summer associates. From exclusive outings to cultural events, summer associates were treated to a variety of exciting activities during their time at these firms.
Some of the standout events reported by summer associates included parties on a yacht and in the Hamptons hosted by Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, an exclusive visit to the Central Park Zoo organized by Cravath, Swaine & Moore, and a trip to see Hamilton in orchestra seats courtesy of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. Other firms, such as Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, Proskauer Rose, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges, offered their associates tickets to prestigious events like the Tony Awards, the NBA draft, and a Dallas Mavericks game in the conference finals.
In addition to these grand events, some firms also organized more intimate gatherings, such as a partner’s cover band performance and a party at a partner’s home. One firm even hosted an Olympics-themed event, complete with activities like baguette fencing and legal textbook shot put.
Top Law Firms for Associate Satisfaction
The satisfaction of summer associates is a key indicator of a firm’s success in nurturing talent and providing a positive work environment. According to the American Lawyer’s survey of 3,077 associates at 71 firms, the top 10 firms for associate satisfaction were:
– Paul Hastings
– Clifford Chance
– Morgan, Lewis & Bockius
– Baker McKenzie
– Duane Morris
– A&O Shearman
– Fenwick & West
– Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft
– Proskauer Rose
– Blank Rome
On the other hand, Law360 Pulse’s survey focused on summer associates and ranked firms based on confidence-building, networking and mentorship, compensation, and fun programming. The top 10 firms in this survey were:
– Dentons
– Norton Rose Fulbright
– Morgan, Lewis & Bockius
– Weil, Gotshal & Manges
– King & Spalding
– Eversheds Sutherland
– Holland & Knight
– DLA Piper
– Kirkland & Ellis
– Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton
These rankings reflect the efforts made by law firms to ensure that their summer associates have a fulfilling and rewarding experience during their time at the firm.
In conclusion, the top law firms for summer associates not only offer competitive compensation and valuable work experience but also go the extra mile to create memorable events and experiences for their young associates. By prioritizing mentorship, meaningful work, and engaging activities, these firms are setting the standard for excellence in the legal industry.
