2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Milbank LLP

Our Survey Says

Vault Verdict 

Milbank associates talk about their firm being a leader on compensation, from high base pay to special bonuses without billable hours requirements to reward firm profitability. However, the benefits of working at Milbank go far beyond its compensation plan. Associates find the firm’s atmosphere friendly and professional with a mix of firm-sponsored events and more-casual organic get-togethers, such as lunch and coffee. This environment supports informal mentorship for junior associates who seek it out, as the firm provides every attorney a budget to connect with more-senior colleagues over coffee or a meal. Associates also participate in a variety of structured training programs throughout their tenure at the firm, including a rotation program, foundational trainings, and for mid-level and senior associates, a well-reviewed leadership development program called Milbank@Harvard. The firm’s attorneys appreciate its approach to on-the-job learning, through which they generally work on tasks appropriate for their level and receive guidance from partners and more-senior associates on challenging tasks. Although the hours can vary, working 50 billable hours per week is typical, and most associates must come into the office three or four days per week. Making equity partner is a difficult yet possible career option, and the firm offers other roles such as special counsel and non-equity partner. Many attorneys find exit opportunities in-house with corporate clients or at other firms. Notable wellness benefits at Milbank include fertility benefits, counseling, exercise stipends, a generous PTO package, and partners who reach out to help.