2022 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER O'Melveny & Myers LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT

O’Melveny & Myers has been around since 1885, but its progressive views on what a law firm should be make it seem like a vanguard in the field. While credentials like academic achievement and work experience are important, it has spurned the idea of recruiting only from T14 law schools. Most important to O’Melveny are people who are team players and who fit the firm’s unique culture on a more human level. This culture emphasizes camaraderie among amicable, collaborative colleagues who enjoy socializing with one another. Not surprisingly, associates enjoy better-than-average relationships with partners, who are approachable and supportive. Partners and senior associates alike take a keen interest in the professional development of younger associates, and supplement the more formal aspects of training—including online resources known as “O’Melveny University”—with exceptional tutelage. Lateral hires as well are integrated nicely and made to feel as part of the team immediately. Work is distributed evenly through work coordinators so associates have level footing in reaching the reasonable billable hour goal of 1,900 hours. All associates get challenging, high-level assignments, and O’Melveny compensates them—in both salary and bonuses—according to the market. The firm’s technology is innovative and the tech staff is quite good in providing support for in-office and remote work. O’Melveny has implemented numerous wellness programs, and associates really enjoy the partnership with Peloton. Pro bono is highly regarded at O’Melveny—unlimited pro bono hours count toward the billable goal, and experiences range from family court to the U.S. Supreme Court. The firm is also noteworthy for its diversity efforts and offers billable credit for up to 50 hours of DEI activities. The career outlook for associates is really strong, both inside and outside the firm.