McGuireWoods

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

McGuireWoods seeks candidates who have solid academic credentials, a good attitude, and agreeable personalities, and the firm recently expanded the number of law schools from which it considers applicants. Personality fit is key to get along with colleagues, who are welcoming, friendly, and professional. Associates say that they enjoy being with their coworkers and that many attorneys come into the office on the two days per week that they’d be permitted to work remotely. Partners respect associates, welcome their input, and treat them like members of the team. They are generous with their time and guidance, enabling associates to learn on the job, which is the primary mode of training at the firm. Comprehensive onboarding helps lateral hires integrate seamlessly. Associates receive challenging and meaningful assignments early with opportunities to interact with clients, strategize with partners, and engage in all phases of a matter. The firm has not implemented a formal structure for the distribution of work, making the hours unpredictable and meeting the billable requirement of 1,950 hours challenging at times. Fifty hours of pro bono work count toward the 1,950-hour billable requirement. Salaries can vary by office location, and bonuses can exceed market for associates who bill 2,150 or more hours. The firm’s technology allows attorneys to work efficiently in and out of the office, and wellness is addressed by partners and firm management, who are attentive to associates’ needs. Associates recognize elevation to counsel and partner roles as realistic opportunities but say that the process for making partner is not transparent. Moving into clerkships, lateral roles at other firms, and in-house positions is typical for those seeking external opportunities.