Sidley Austin LLP

Our Survey Says

Vault Verdict 

Sidley is a realistic target for law students at T14 schools and those at the top of their class in schools geographically close to a Sidley office. Sidley offers a culture grounded in friendliness, respect, and sociability while still recognizing that people want to leave work behind and be with their families at the end of the day. Associates appreciate respect and kindness from partners, as well as regular communication around their own performances. Although the billable hour requirement of 2,000 is thought to be high, once 1,800 client billable hours are reached, the remaining 200 hours may comprise pro bono, knowledge management, and other contributions to the firm. Base salaries and bonuses are market. Discretionary bonuses are possible for attorneys who miss the 2,000-hour mark in a given year, and bonuses may be bumped up for associates who hit 2,100 or more billable hours. Associates love the firm’s IT department and the access they are given to both the new Harvey AI and older, proven research tools. The firm offers two organized wellness events per month and free memberships to Headspace and other online wellness services. Formal training specific to each practice group is provided as are formal mentors for each incoming associate; informal mentoring and training are also strong. Equity partnership is realistic in the sense that expectations are clear for those willing to do the hard work to get it; counsel and senior counsel roles are available both as long-term positions and stepping stones to partnership, and high-quality exit opportunities are abundant.