Gunster

Our Survey Says

VAULT VERDICT

Gunster hires attorneys from a variety of schools, prioritizing fit with its pleasant, cooperative, and social culture. The firm’s attorneys connect by chatting in the office, at small office celebrations, at firm-sponsored events, and organic happy hours. Associates say that their relationships with partners are built on respect, with partners providing realistic expectations and constructive feedback, showing gratitude for hard work, and maintaining an open door policy. Partners serve as formal mentors to associates, and associates say that their on-the-job training is strong. Associates take on substantive drafting, legal research, and client-facing responsibilities. Their hours are flexible, as the firm provides the freedom for associates to work the number of hours they want, and it has an annual billable hour requirement of 1,800, which can include 50 hours of billable pro bono work. Associates who choose to work fewer hours receive a reduced bonus, while those who choose to work more hours receive a larger bonus. While the firm’s compensation is not top-of-market, associates say that the base pay and bonus structure are competitive for the firm’s size. They also say that the path to both equity and non-equity partnership is clear and attainable for those who want it, with associates becoming eligible for promotion after eight years. Gunster also offers exit opportunities such as lateraling to other firms. Notable perks include bonuses paid to associates before bonuses are paid to partners and respect for time off.