Dechert

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Dechert makes many “best of” lists because, simply, it’s a great place to work. Criteria for candidates include good grades from top national or regional law schools, diversity, and personality. Coworkers are kind, sociable, and collaborative—as shown by how many leave their office doors open—and show appreciation for the work of others. Partners, too, respect associates’ efforts and opinions, and they understand the importance of work-life balance. Weekly training sessions are helpful, as are on-the-job experiences with partners and senior associates. It seems that all attorneys are comfortable either asking or answering questions. Partner mentors and associate ambassadors also step in to help lateral hires, who are integrated nicely into the firm. Assignments are challenging, and associates are given plenty of opportunities to assume responsibility for more difficult tasks. Established relationships and reputations determine how some projects are doled out, though practice group administrators try to assign them equitably. The manageable 1,950 billable hour requirement includes 200 pro bono hours and 50 “community hours” (including DEI, business development, mentoring, and more) and associates like lockstep salaries that match the market. Special bonuses and extra-bonus thresholds mean that overall compensation may be higher than the market standard. Dechert has done well to update and improve firm technology, and between specific programs and people looking out for each other, its wellness efforts are regarded highly. Beyond the hour allocation mentioned above, Dechert is a pro bono leader and highly encourages related work. Affinity groups and committees advance the cause of diversity and inclusion, but retention and promotion of diverse partners need to be improved. Associates’ options for making partner, being promoted to counsel, or going in-house are strong.


THE FIRM'S PERSPECTIVE:

Dechert has built a global platform across 21 locations with a singular focus—delivering the highest-quality advice that is actionable, commercial, and delivered efficiently. Our firm undertakes work for 40 of the “Fortune 100” companies and represents more than 200 private equity and investment firms. We also advise all 10 of the top 10 global asset management firms, and 41 of the top 50 global private debt firms.

In all we do, we aim to be a force for good for our employees, our clients, and our world. We strongly believe in the power of giving back. We live up to this standard by performing the equivalent of more than $95 million in services delivered to people and causes in need of legal representation. We were also proud of our Dechert Days of Service program, in which colleagues join with local neighbors to make our cities a better place to live.

Through our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, Dechert works tirelessly to ensure that everyone is a full member of our organization. We hold regular firmwide speaker events on timely topics designed to deepen our understanding of racism and allyship, ultimately forging a stronger sense of community.

We are also committed to providing well-being resources and support systems to ensure that a career at Dechert means not just succeeding but thriving.

In all, our values are rooted in exceptional client service, innovation, diversity, and community—and, ultimately, they are reflected not only in words but in our actions.