Cozen O'Connor

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Cozen O’Connor associates are accustomed to quality with respect to work experiences, rapport with partners, and lives outside of work. Standard criteria—grades, journal, and work experience—impact hiring, which is focused on students from law schools in the region, particularly near hiring offices. In addition to enjoyment of the pleasant office environment and socialization with others, Cozen O’Connor attorneys appreciate the emphasis the firm places on establishing work-life balance. Partners are friendly, active in supporting associates, and appreciative of associate contributions. They supplement robust formal training programs with regular guidance and feedback, and they’re enthusiastic about associate development. Lateral onboarding is efficient, particularly at the practice group level. Project matters range from basic to complex and challenging, and associates have significant exposure to clients. Availability and experience affect how assignments are made, and work distribution is fair. Cozen O’Connor’s billable hour requirement of 1,850 hours and flexible remote work arrangements contribute to work-life balance. Compensation is below market—with some associates noting that it is markedly low and others thinking that the tradeoff for the opportunity to have a personal life is worthwhile. The firm adopts and invests in new technologies, and issues are addressed reliably by the IT department. There are incentives for participating in various wellness programs, along with other activities, but many associates don’t have time to take advantage of the offerings. Pro bono work, managed through a dedicated coordinator, is promoted. Twenty hours of pro bono work is mandatory, and the number of hours considered billable, capped at 75, may be increased with permission. The firm embraces DEI through support of affinity groups, hiring, promotion, mentorship, and retention. Making equity partner is difficult, but those promoted to non-equity positions can remain at the firm long term.