2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Ropes & Gray LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Ropes & Gray recruits academically successful team players from a variety of law schools, including many in the Northeast. In the spirit of collegiality and collaboration, people keep their doors open, creating a welcoming environment that facilitates real friendships. Partners value and appreciate associates, make themselves accessible, and guide associates in their development. Mentor-mentee relationships are established both naturally and by assignment, and they are supplemented by live, recorded, and online training sessions. Formal programming, informal meetings, and frequent check-ins help laterals transition into the firm. Work assignments are appropriately challenging and substantive from the start, and associates frequently interact with clients. A central staffing system ensures that projects are evenly distributed. Ropes & Gray sets a target of 1,900 billable hours, and compensation matches the prevailing market standard. Prorated bonuses are awarded when someone falls short of hours and may also be awarded for meaningful contributions to the firm. Recent improvements to technology include new laptops, updated software, and extensive AI training. Wellness is promoted through meditation sessions, gym membership discounts, and a wellness coach. Pro bono work is strongly encouraged: Accomplishments are celebrated, and there is no limit on related hours that count as billable. Career prospects include counsel, career associate, and equity partner roles. Common landing spots for individuals who leave are other firms and in-house positions.