2022 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER McGuireWoods

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT

With its deep roots in the southeastern part of the United States, McGuireWoods is BigLaw with a small-firm, hospitable feel. In hiring, the firm looks for attorneys with strong academic records, journal membership, work or clerkship experience, and ties to relevant geographic markets. Associates’ personalities matter, too, in that they need to blend well with the family-like atmosphere. While after-hours socializing may be limited, respect for work-life balance is evident. Partners treat associates as valued members of the team and take active roles in younger attorneys’ development. Lateral hires appreciate the support they receive as they transition into the firm. On-the-job training and guidance from more senior attorneys take the place of unimpressive formal training as associates join McGuireWoods. Because projects are staffed leanly, associates have the opportunity to take on challenging assignments that might be above their experience level; however, the lean teams mean that they must often take on some basic tasks. Work capacity is managed fairly, though assignments are also distributed based on past work quality. Associates concede that required billable hours seem high but manageable at 1,950, and are less than thrilled at below-market compensation. The firm does not offer bonuses for anything less than 2,050 billable hours. Firm technology does not inhibit attorneys from doing their work, even if the firm hasn’t embraced certain innovations. Wellness efforts are disappointing and not promoted by firm leadership; nor is pro bono work promoted as much as associates would like. Only 50 pro bono hours count toward billable hours. McGuireWoods is viewed favorably in terms of diversity hiring and inclusion efforts, and associates have positive outlooks for internal promotion and external options.