Jenner & Block

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Award-winning pro bono work, engaged partners, and top compensation are a few of the reasons why Jenner & Block is an attractive landing spot for associates. Hiring is based on standard criteria such as top schools, academic achievement, and work or clerkship experience. Firm settings are personable, tight-knit, and collaborative and are augmented by partners who are dedicated to helping associates by seeking and incorporating their input. Mentoring relationships focus on professional development, and more formal training—beginning at orientation—is extensive. The firm’s friendly, Midwestern sensibilities help lateral and clerk hires feel welcomed quickly. Lean teams mean that associates get challenging assignments and face time with clients and are encouraged to push themselves beyond their comfort zone. A free market system, favoritism, and availability all play roles in how projects are distributed. The manageable 1,950-hour billable requirement and three-days-per-week in-office policy allow associates to enjoy work-life balance. There are no complaints about compensation, as salaries and bonuses match the market. Jenner & Block’s tech department provides good support, and they’re kept busy by systems that are problematic and need to be updated. Wellness programming, including support staff, mental health apps, and nutrition programs, is plentiful. The firm embraces diversity and inclusion, especially regarding general support, affinity groups, women, and LGBTQ persons, and up to 100 hours of pro bono work counts as billable. Equity partnership seems achievable, but if not desired or attained, then counsel and non-equity positions are viable. Common external options include government and in-house roles.