Dechert

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

On the cusp of its 150th anniversary, Dechert has a history of being a great place to do top-quality work with engaged partners for leading compensation. The law school attended, grades, and experience—whether at a journal, clerkship, or another job—impact hiring decisions. Coworkers are friendly and respectful and take a genuine interest in each other. Partners are great teachers and mentors who take the time to provide feedback and show appreciation to associates. Hands-on development of associates seems like a Dechert tenet, and its structured, regular training programs are helpful. Similarly, the lateral integration process is effective. Associate work assignments are challenging and important, offering opportunities for client interaction and pushing one’s self. Projects are distributed evenly and fairly so that everyone is busy with interesting work but not so busy that work-life balance is jeopardized. Dechert recently changed its billable hour standard to 1,950 hours, which is reasonable and in line with industry standards. Lockstep compensation matches the market, and above-market bonuses are available. Firm technology seems to be a highlight; it’s been updated, and  advanced options, including AI, have been adopted. Wellness initiatives such as Meditation Mondays and Well-Being Week make associates feel like the firm really cares about them. As many as 100 pro bono hours count as billable, with even more counted toward earning extraordinary bonuses. Dechert addresses diversity through hiring, affinity groups, and a supportive firm culture. Associates feel positive about their chances to make equity partner, but other options such as permanent associate or counsel roles are viable. Those who leave go to other firms or in-house, often with clients or Dechert alumni.

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.