2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Covington & Burling

Our Survey Says

 VAULT'S VERDICT:

For unmatched associate/partner experiences and pro bono opportunities, Covington is the place to be. Hiring focuses on candidates with high grades from elite schools, and the firm reaches out to an applicant’s recommenders. Personalities matter, too, because the firm’s setting is professional but not overly social, and the importance of separating associates’ work and personal lives is recognized. Partners are known for appreciating associates and valuing their input, caring about their development, and respecting their work-life balance. Strong on-the-job guidance and mentoring are supplemented with plentiful formal training opportunities. Lateral and clerk hires feel plugged in and welcomed right away. Work experiences are diverse, ranging from mundane to interesting, including challenging assignments and client interactions. Experience and familiarity often dictate how projects are distributed, but central staffing tries to spread assignments among associates. The 1,950 hour billable requirement is reasonable, especially because it includes unlimited pro bono hours, which is a Covington highlight and shining achievement. Associates love the firm’s devotion to pro bono work and that these hours make it easier to earn bonuses, which, like salaries, are given at the prevailing market rate. In contrast to all these positives, firm technology and IT support are negatives. Recent efforts to improve need to be expanded further. Covington’s wellness programs are numerous and appear to be implemented out of genuine concern for associates, but many attorneys simply don’t have time to take advantage of them. Similarly, DEI efforts, such as affinity groups, a diversity summit, and recruiting are clear, but retention, especially for persons of color, needs attention. Promotion to counsel seems more common than making partner, though paths to partnership exist. Exit opportunities in-house or in the government are popular as well.