Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT

Davis Polk hires top students from a broad range of law schools from around the United States and Canada. The office culture is friendly and professional, and employees enjoy good relationships with each other. The firm prioritizes creating a welcoming workplace. Partners’ doors are open so they can answer associates’ questions, and they are invested in associates’ professional growth. In addition to informal training by partner and associate mentors who are willing and effective teachers, formal training is presented to junior attorneys through intensive bootcamp-style programs and monthly events. Laterals are integrated seamlessly and are encouraged to travel to other offices to meet colleagues. Associates assume responsibility for varied and high-quality projects and enjoy significant interactions with clients. Work is evenly distributed through a central staffing system. Davis Polk does not have a billable hour requirement, and although associates are busy, they are not expected to search for work during slow times. Compensation is lockstep and matches the market, and the lack of a billable requirement means that all associates are eligible to receive bonuses. Firm technology is satisfactory and accommodates remote work. A wellness team, an on-site medical center, and counseling services support the firm’s wellness efforts. Pro bono work with a wide variety of nonprofits is encouraged, and assignments are advanced by a dedicated team of attorneys and paralegals. Promotion to counsel is a realistic career move, while equity partnership is difficult. Exit options include in-house positions and lateral moves to other law firms.