Cooley

Our Survey Says

 VAULT'S VERDICT:

Cooley has historically been thought of as one of the more balanced BigLaw firms, and that sentiment doesn’t seem to have changed even as the market has soured a bit from the scorching highs of the pandemic. Associates say the firm’s hours requirement (and the bonus structure tied to it) are reasonable and predictable, although some express a desire for Cooley to join those of its peers who have done away with such requirements altogether. The general sentiment is that partners are approachable and respectful and that the firm is direct and transparent about the decisions it makes. Both the formal and informal training structures receive high overall marks, and work is reported to be always substantive and appropriate to associate experience levels. Technology works well, and remote work is fully supported, although some associates lament the lack of a tech stipend. Compensation is market with above-market bonuses available for high performers. Cooley receives very high marks on attorney wellness compared to peer firms, with an array of wellness programs readily available and widely used by those who responded to our survey. Associates give the firm high marks for its diversity efforts and for its frank acknowledgment of where improvements can still be made. There is no limitation on the pro bono hours that associates can count toward their billable hour requirement, something that many find very valuable and encouraging. The partnership process is reported to be transparent, well understood, and possible for anyone to walk if they will commit to doing the work.