Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Because of the firm’s relatively small size, Cadwalader’s people are close-knit, making the firm a great place for attorneys seeking a place where everyone knows everyone. The firm looks broadly for top talent and does not limit hiring to T14 schools, prioritizing demonstrated interest in its practice areas and overall fit. The culture is described as friendly and professional, and the firm sponsors events, which are well-attended. Moreover, partners make efforts to get to know associates and help them become better attorneys, but associates say that transparency at the management level could be better. Mandating a 2,000-hour billable requirement, the firm operates on a somewhat flexible three-day in-office hybrid schedule. Compensation matches the market and is strictly tied to the billable hour bonus threshold. Cadwalader’s lean staffing means associates enjoy highly substantive work. Junior attorneys have access to formal training opportunities, and mentorship is promoted through formal events and a quarterly budget. The firm has adopted AI, and associates say that firm technology has been adequate and that the IT department is helpful. Career prospects are very strong; many Cadwalader partners rose through the associate ranks, and the firm continues to prioritize internal promotion. Counsel is another viable option.

THE FIRM'S PERSPECTIVE:

A career at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP is truly an opportunity to make history and become part of the legacy of the oldest Wall Street law firm with more than 230 years of legal experience and innovation benefiting our clients.

Today’s Cadwalader advises the world’s leading financial institutions, corporations, and funds. Our lawyers help clients identify opportunities, create value, and manage risk by crafting innovative business solutions and developing sophisticated legal strategies. We firmly believe that the truest measure of our success is the success of our clients.

Our lawyers work across practices and geographies, seamlessly integrating their experience, insight, vision, and values to deliver the highest-quality legal work.

The firm’s continued strength lies in attracting, retaining, and nurturing the very best talent from all backgrounds. By building a diverse, inclusive team, we offer clients the power of multiple perspectives and the full scope of our individual strengths. We are committed to ensuring that the future composition of Cadwalader will, with each passing year, more closely reflect the global community that we serve.

Within the fabric of our firm is a deep-seated commitment to giving back to our communities through public service and pro bono work. Our dedication to the principles of corporate social responsibility is also based on this long-standing tradition of serving the public good.

In the end, culture counts, and Cadwalader has worked very hard to create a firm where lawyers and staff feel supported, where diversity matters, and where everyone is an important contributor to the firm’s success.