Irell & Manella LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Irell & Manella LLP looks for attorneys who attended a top law school or were in the top 10% of their class and express an interest in intellectual property litigation and trial work. The firm has a collegial culture, where everyone from partners and associates to staff engage respectfully with each other. The atmosphere is described as “intimate,” with colleagues connecting at firm-sponsored events such as lunches and happy hours. Associates also receive a networking budget to take their colleagues to lunch, and the firm holds regular retreats. Partners interact with associates both socially and professionally, treat them cordially, and work closely with them on leanly staffed teams. They share firmwide updates through periodic presentations. Associates are encouraged to come into the office, but the firm does not have a formal requirement to do so, and associates receive a budget for technology and office decor. Along with various other assignments, substantiative drafting responsibilities are given to associates. Most training is offered on the job via partner feedback and informal mentorship. The firm mandates a billable requirement of 2,000 hours, which includes unlimited pro bono hours, and pays above market, including, in recent years, two rounds of bonuses. Making equity partnership is realistic for those who want it, and counsel roles are also available. Exit opportunities include roles in-house and at other law firms. Subsidized gym memberships and counseling services are firm perks.