Pillsbury

Our Survey Says

 VAULT'S VERDICT:

Exceptional professional opportunities await associates at Pillsbury, as do “super bonuses” and a lot of hours they can devote to pro bono work. Hiring criteria include strong academic backgrounds, work experience, diversity, and personality. It’s important that associates are able to blend in with the collaborative, friendly office settings and will work well as part of a team. Partners take a genuine interest in associates and their development, providing guidance and feedback—in fact, the firm shines in the mentorship that more-senior attorneys provide to newer associates. On the other hand, formal training seems rather standard, and reports are mixed on how well lateral hires are integrated into the firm. Work assignments are challenging, and associates are able to take on more substantive work when they ask for it and have shown they’re capable. Partners often dispense projects to associates they know and who have experience, though lean teams mean that most associates get interesting work. Salaries match the market, and associates must bill a manageable 2,000 hours to be eligible for a bonus. Super bonuses kick in at 2,200 and 2,400 hours, respectively. Firm tech is satisfactory, if not cutting edge, and there are many wellness programs and offerings, though associates would prefer that the firm encouraged downtime and better work-life balance. Pro bono is a big deal at Pillsbury, with up to 300 hours that count toward the billable hour requirement. Diversity efforts are strong, with a DEI director, affinity groups, and focused recruiting and hiring; however, retention remains an issue. Making partner is possible and is openly discussed, while others segue into counsel positions or make external moves in-house or to the government.