2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Clifford Chance US LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Going to a prestigious school, earning good grades, and amassing prior work experience may get you an interview at Clifford Chance, but getting hired takes a demonstrated interest in the firm’s international work and a personality that will be a natural fit with the firm’s collegial, friendly culture. Attorneys work in the office three days per week and socialize regularly at both firm-sponsored events and organic gatherings. Associates describe the firm’s hours as reasonable, with junior associates receiving work from assignment managers who seek to distribute it evenly. Associates receive assignments appropriate to their skill level with guidance and support for stretch assignments. Each associate is paired with a career development partner who acts as an advisor and a role model to support and enable lawyers as they develop their career. Wellness efforts at Clifford Chance, which include access to mental health providers, various subscriptions, and on-site healthy food options, receive high marks. Promotion to equity partner at Clifford Chance is viewed as realistic, and the firm also offers a counsel role as a long-term alternative. In addition, the firm connects associates looking for other opportunities to firm alumni who can help them find in-house roles. Compensation follows the market, with a combined hours target of 2,000 hours. Perks include international travel opportunities, backup childcare services, and a generous tech stipend.

FIRM'S RESPONSE

A law firm’s culture is defined in many ways: geographic reach, substantive strengths, client focus, inclusion, and core values. Candidates carefully weigh these qualities throughout the recruitment process, but once our associates arrive and become a member of the team, a key factor in their development is mentorship. Our partners and senior associates take this responsibility seriously; there is a genuine commitment to growth and improvement. We learn from each other, embracing one another’s diverse ideas, experiences, and backgrounds. True investment in our associates means giving them the confidence to reach outside their comfort zones, the support to grow professionally and personally, and the space to discover their true potential.