Seward & Kissel LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Seward & Kissel has many associates from Fordham, but hires from a variety of law schools, emphasizing work ethic, attitude, and long-term commitment to the firm. Associates say the atmosphere is collaborative and social, though not very diverse, with many firm-sponsored events such as catered lunches and seasonal celebrations. Associates come into the office three days per week. They sit near an assigned secretary in the office and receive a $500 work-from-home stipend to purchase home office equipment. Associates say that partners are friendly and accessible, with many having started their careers at the firm. They receive work directly from partners in a free-market system, with the flexibility to set their own hours as long as they meet deadlines. Associates handle a variety of assignments that touch most stages of a case, from document review to drafting and filings. Most learning occurs on the job after their first few weeks at the firm, but associates are assigned formal mentors and some practice groups host their own training. Associates say they have a solid work-life balance, with a mix of slow periods and busy periods, but junior associates can struggle to reach the firm’s 1,850 billable hour requirement to make their bonus, which is market, like their base compensation. The billable hour requirement does not include pro bono work, but firm-sponsored pro bono work is available. Associates say that making partnership is realistic, although not transparent, with most equity partners first advancing through counsel or non-equity partnership roles. Exit opportunities are available to competitor firms and in-house counsel roles. Notable perks include coverage for fertility treatments and full remote work for the month of August, Thanksgiving week, and Christmas week.