Perkins Coie LLP

Find a Mentor: 

Perkins Coie LLP Mentors

Our Survey Says

Unique in its Pacific Northwest roots, Perkins Coie offers many desirable benefits for associates. All hiring, whether for candidates from T14, non-T14, or local schools, is competitive, with attention paid to academics, journal work, and clerkship experience. Office settings are professional and collaborative, with just the right amount of socializing. Partners respect and value associates and seem to be truly invested in their development, a benefit that is somewhat mitigated by concerns with management’s lack of transparency and communication. Mentoring is effectively performed through regular contact and support, and according to associates, this hands-on learning is more valuable than any formal firm training. More structure and resources should be committed for onboarding lateral hires. Minimal hierarchy and lean teams mean that associates get challenging work and are encouraged to take on increased responsibilities. Seniority and favoritism play roles in how projects are assigned, so work distribution could be fairer. The billable hour increase from 1,850 to 2,000 hours does not sit well with most associates, who are concerned about the impact it will have on work-life balance. The increased hours make it difficult for associates to utilize the many wellness offerings. Compensation is a concern, too, as Perkins Coie uses geographic tiers (i.e., lower salaries and bonuses in smaller markets) even though associates bill at the same national rates. Updated technology is supported by a helpful IT department, and the firm seems committed to pro bono work, providing unlimited hours toward bonus eligibility for first- and second-year associates and up to 150 bonus-creditable hours for third-year and more senior associates. Diversity programming, hiring, and retention are firm strengths. Making partner appears to be difficult, with an extended partnership track and a backlog of associates waiting to be promoted. Many feel that moving in-house or to other firms are good options.