Jackson Walker

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Jackson Walker hires top candidates from law schools nationwide and further emphasizes military service and college athletics experience because these experiences show drive, discipline, and teamwork. Office settings are easygoing, collaborative, and social, and partners view associates as future partners. As such, they are keen on supporting their professional growth. With associate and partner mentors, monthly CLEs, and annual structured trainings, younger attorneys receive extensive instruction. Laterals are integrated through a retreat, visits to other offices, and frequent lunches. Lean staffing leads to meaningful assignments early in one’s career, with opportunities for increased responsibility. There is no coordinated project distribution system at Jackson Walker. The firm’s billable requirement of 1,950 hours allows for work-life balance, and salary the first three years is market rate. Thereafter, it depends on the office, practice group, and hours worked. Bonuses occur at 2,000, 2,150, and 2,300 hours. Firm technology is updated, with new equipment and services, though there are some hurdles that come with updates. Wellness initiatives include events with life coaches and therapists, exercise and nutrition programs, and 10 free counseling sessions. Pro bono work is encouraged, with 50 hours counting toward the billable goal. More hours can apply with firm approval. Associates are encouraged by prospects of promotion to counsel, income partner, and equity partner, while those who leave the firm generally go in-house or to other firms.