McDermott Will & Schulte

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

This Verdict was derived from Vault's 2025 Annual Associate Survey using quotes from associates from the legacy firm McDermott Will & Emery.

Recruiting is highly selective at McDermott because the firm expects low attrition. Successful candidates are well-rounded and eager to contribute. The firm’s culture is described as positive and welcoming with little emphasis on hierarchy and high leadership transparency. Partners are friendly and approachable, and they place an emphasis on teaching and coaching, which encourages mentoring relationships to form organically. The firm also offers an excellent formal mentorship program along with general and practice-specific training opportunities. Hours are demanding but manageable with a 2,000 billable requirement that can include pro bono, mindfulness, and professional development hours. Compensation can exceed the market thanks to generous bonuses on top of market salaries. The firm’s nonhierarchical structure means that even junior associates receive substantive work. McDermott is invested in the wellness of its attorneys, hosting a happiness committee, providing billable mindfulness hours, bringing in an in-office counselor, and encouraging vacations. Technology is innovative as the firm pushes to adopt new tech platforms and explore AI. Pro bono work is encouraged, and 100 hours of pro bono work qualify as billable with the potential for more hours to be creditable with approval. The firm has a two-tier partnership structure. Becoming an income partner is achievable for those who want it; becoming an equity partnership is more challenging. The exit opportunities are excellent.