Benesch

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

When hiring, Benesch looks for candidates near the top of their law school classes who fit with its collaborative, friendly culture. Recently, the firm has made a push to hire laterally from other firms as it expands, and lawyers who come to Benesch from other firms appreciate its structured approach to integrating them into day-to-day operations. The firm is collegial and social, with most attorneys in the office three days per week. Lawyers socialize at regular firm-sponsored happy hours or lunch, and some participate in sports leagues together. Partners treat associates with respect and listen to their opinions on case matters, and every associate is assigned a formal partner mentor when they start at the firm. Partners directly assign work to associates in a free-market system, and associates typically receive challenging assignments early in their careers, such as taking depositions or corresponding with clients. The billable hour target is 1,900 per year (100 of which can be pro bono), and some departments use a capacity tracker to help attorneys communicate their workloads to partners. Associates who exceed the hour requirement get a bonus, which can increase based on number of hours and seniority. The firm also has a profit-sharing plan and a merit-based bonus program in the spring. Associates say the compensation is great for the Cleveland market, but a bit below market in larger cities. Making partnership is realistic, with most associates first spending time in a non-equity partnership role. Counsel positions are also available, as are exits to in-house or government positions. Notable perks include a company-provided work-from-home setup, fertility benefits, and strong parental leave.