2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Fenwick

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Fenwick is the OG of Silicon Valley, where in 1972, four guys from NY decided to follow the clientele and open a technology firm in Palo Alto. Representing big-name clients, like Apple, means associates have to possess an interest or background in tech and life sciences along with top grades. Fenwick wants to attract the right type of associate because the firm is a place where people wear hoodies and work hard, and happy attitudes prevail. Everyone works together with a loose hierarchy to deliver exceptional service to clients. Partners have open doors and willingly provide associates with feedback. The firm is busy, but long hours with friendly colleagues and flexibility regarding where work happens make working at Fenwick desirable. Associates receive market compensation and receive higher bonuses for hitting additional hours. The firm has a free market system for work assignments, and associates feel satisfied with the high-quality work for important industry clients. Always innovating, Fenwick started programs like Fenwick Labs and FLEX by Fenwick to provide effective solutions for clients. Benefits and wellness are a firm priority with buy-in from associates. The firm recently revamped its formal training programs, and mentorship relationships are genuine. Associates know early on what it takes to become a partner, and exit opportunities are unparalleled, given the cachet of Fenwick’s clientele. Pro bono projects for transactional and litigation associates are plentiful, and the firm wants associates to serve the community. Fenwick has numerous affinity groups for women, Asian, African American, Hispanic, LGBTQ+, and parent attorneys working at the firm. They also offer 1L and 2L diversity scholarships for diverse law students.