2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Alston & Bird

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Favorable office settings and relationships are distinctive aspects of Alston & Bird. Offices often hire from local and regional law schools, and the firm looks beyond academic credentials for personality fit. Work environments are sociable and welcoming, so daily interactions are pleasant. Teamwork is emphasized, even between associates and partners, who employ open-door policies to foster feedback and development. Associates learn best through on-the-job guidance and experience, as formal training is minimal. Lateral hires feel positive about how they’re brought into the firm. Work assignments include some basic tasks, while higher-level work—with appropriate support—gives associates the opportunity to learn and push themselves. Projects are generally distributed fairly, though partners often prefer to work with those whose work they know. Alston & Bird sets a manageable 2,000-hour billable requirement and offers some flexibility on when and where associates work. Salaries and bonuses match the market standard, with additional bonuses possible for hitting 2,200 and 2,400 billable hours. Wellness initiatives include counseling, exercise tracking, and meditation programs.   Firm leadership promotes pro bono work as a tenet of firm culture, and up to 150 hours of related work count as billable. The firm also emphasizes diversity and inclusion efforts, with programming and 50 hours approved for DEI work. While counsel positions or making non-equity partner seem attainable options, promotion to equity partner is a long and difficult process. Transitions to other firms or in-house positions are common options.