2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Ropes & Gray

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Many factors, including partner engagement, work-life balance, and commitment to pro bono work comprise the list of reasons why associates should give a long, hard look at Ropes & Gray. The firm hires from T14 and other schools in geographic proximity to the hiring office. Candidates must have high grades and be kind people. Colleagues are supportive and social but understand of work-life balance. Partners respect associates and freely give their time to answer questions and provide feedback. This exceptional mentoring, along with rigorous training offered by the firm, help associates feel prepared for their work and for taking on new challenges. Significant efforts to orient and welcome laterals are effective. Some less-glamorous tasks are sprinkled in with work that is generally substantive and feels level appropriate, and associates can take on additional responsibility. A centralized staffing system helps distribute projects, though some partners seem to circumvent the assignment system in favor of giving work to preferred associates. Ropes & Gray imposes a sensible 1,900-hour billable target and requires four days in the office per week. Salaries match the prevailing market rate, as do bonuses—though bonuses may be increased for high billers and may be prorated for those who don’t meet the hours requirement. A helpful IT support team supplements firm technology that is adequate though not cutting-edge. Wellness efforts are numerous, but intentionality and buy-in could be improved. The firm’s commitment to and support of pro bono work is noteworthy, as are diversity efforts in terms of hiring programs, affinity groups, and support systems. Career progression is possible through promotion to counsel, making equity partner, and movement to in-house positions.