Seyfarth

Our Survey Says

VAULT’S VERDICT:

From humble beginnings in Chicago as a law firm focused on labor and employment law to a full-service firm with 18 offices worldwide, Seyfarth is a great place for associates. Small class sizes mean that hiring is competitive, and a premium is placed on academic achievement and prior work experience. Coworkers are pleasant and welcoming but professional and very work-oriented. Associates find partners to be approachable, candid with feedback, and committed to associates’ professional development. Partners and senior associates are great mentors, and the firm supplements hands-on learning with monthly CLEs and department-specific training events. Seyfarth seems to hire laterals frequently, and they are integrated appropriately. Associates can take on challenging work assignments and interact with clients while taking on increasingly complex tasks as they gain experience. With no formal system to ensure that work is distributed evenly, associates must be proactive in getting the assignments they want. Seyfarth is transparent about its below-market compensation, and many associates feel the billable requirement of 1,950 hours is high but attainable. Firm technology is up-to-date and includes AI tools. Despite many wellness offerings addressing mental and physical health, buy-in seems lackluster. Pro bono work is supported and encouraged; however, only 60 hours count toward the billable goal. Seyfarth is effective in its diversity efforts, which include a dedicated office and diversity officer, affinity groups, and support of an inclusive environment. The small class sizes mentioned earlier translate to a respectable number of advancement opportunities into counsel positions, non-equity partnership, and equity partnership. Associates who leave typically go in-house or to other firms.