Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT

Davis Polk recruits with an emphasis on academic achievement, social proficiency, and collegiality. Lawyers are collaborative and pleasant, even during stressful periods, and interactions are more professional than social. Partners appreciate associates’ contributions, accept input about concerns, and care about their well-being and development. The firm offers regular trainings, but the best learning occurs through direct contact with associate and partner mentors, who employ open door policies and provide frequent feedback. No formal programming exists for onboarding or integrating lateral hires. Associate work assignments are challenging and engaging, and associates are given opportunities to take more responsibility and autonomy. Centralized staffing is used to distribute assignments equitably. The absence of a formal billable hour requirement decreases stress and increases attorney quality of life despite a soft expectation of between1,900 and 2,100 hours. Both salaries and bonuses are lockstep and follow the market standard. Firm technology is satisfactory but not innovative, and emerging technologies have not been adopted. Wellness is promoted by webinars, gym subsidies, counseling, and time away from work that is respected. Associates enjoy a wide variety of pro bono opportunities that are supported by a dedicated department. Options for being promoted to senior associate and counsel positions are positive; however, elevation to partner is less realistic. Given the firm’s reputation and standing, exit opportunities are plentiful.