2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE PREMIUM SPONSOR Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP

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Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP Mentors

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VAULT’S VERDICT:

Akin hires new associates from top-tier law schools and regional schools near its offices following a conversational interview designed to gauge applicant aptitude and personality. Candidates should demonstrate effective communication skills and the ability to fit in the firm’s collegial culture. Working together at the office three days per week, Akin attorneys often mingle to discuss new case developments or legal theories. The firm regularly hosts social events, and some associates also choose to socialize outside of work hours. Along with counsel, partners prepare new associates for increased client interaction over time, and as associates gain experience, their work becomes increasingly substantive. In addition to mentoring, the firm offers CLE and skills training. Akin maintains a billable hour requirement of 1,950 hours, comprising 1,850 billable hours and 100 hours from firm citizenship and pro bono work. The firm encourages associates to complete at least 50 pro bono hours per year. The firm pays market salaries, and associates who meet the hours requirement are eligible for a market bonus. Promotion to equity partner is selective, but it is realistic, and the firm also offers networking opportunities and alternative long-term roles. Perks at Akin include a firm-sponsored work-from-home setup, fitness and cell phone stipends, and parental leave.

FIRM PERSPECTIVE

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP is a leading global law firm providing innovative legal services and business solutions to individuals and institutions. We are one of the world’s largest law firms, with more than 1,000 lawyers and professionals in 17 offices.

Our firm’s clients range from individuals to corporations and foreign governments. We were founded in Texas in 1945 by Robert Strauss and Richard Gump with the guiding vision that commitment, excellence, and integrity would drive the success of the firm. We incorporated these qualities into the firm’s core values as we grew into an international full-service firm positioned at the intersection of commerce, policy, and the law. This dedication to the advancement of these values guides relationships within the firm and, most importantly, with its clients.

Akin is widely recognized for its strength in litigation and international arbitration, high-stakes appellate work, financial restructuring, corporate transactions, investment funds, global project finance, and international trade and for its depth in public policy, which allow the firm to provide a comprehensive suite of services for governments, companies, and individuals worldwide.