2022 DIVERSITY DATABASE PREMIUM SPONSOR Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Even with its international reach and reputation, Cleary gives associates the feel of a down-to-earth neighborhood law firm. In the firm’s competitive hiring process, personality fit counts as much as academic performance. Work settings are friendly and laid back, while social events are plentiful but not overwhelming—it’s possible for people to have personal lives. Partners are respectful to associates, welcome their contributions, and provide useful feedback. Cleary seems to do training and mentoring well, with many levels of each available, including on-the-job tutelage. Lateral hires feel welcomed and trained well, though more efforts to integrate them socially would be nice. Work assignments are substantive and cutting edge, and associates are encouraged to push themselves and take on more responsibility. Practice group staffers make sure tasks are spread evenly among associates, though some work is assigned based on experience and familiarity. Clearly suggests a 1,950-hour “target” of billable work each year, without it being a strict requirement, and associates are plenty busy. Lockstep salaries and bonuses match the market and are paid regardless of hours billed. Firm technology is above average, and the firm has embraced improvements in the area of e-discovery. The firm has established some solid wellness programs, but many associates would prefer fewer hours and more time for personal lives. Cleary’s pro bono coordinator does a great job encouraging pro bono work, the hours for which count completely as billable. There have been improvements in supporting diverse individuals, especially regarding affinity groups networking events; unfortunately, ethnic diversity is lacking in the partnership ranks. Though partnership may be difficult to attain, internal counsel positions are available and external moves in-house and to the government are popular.