Susman Godfrey

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

While Susman Godfrey may be small in numbers, it is a litigation powerhouse, taking on both plaintiff and defense work without batting an eye. The 150 attorneys in four offices all work as a team to keep the firm moving forward and growing organically. If you’re lucky enough to land a spot with the firm, you earned it with top grades from a top school and a federal clerkship under your belt. Associates are thrust into the fire from the start, and they love every minute of it—no one works at the firm who doesn’t want to litigate. Associates work closely with partners and take ownership of their work and their contributions to the case. The firm resoundingly stands by its training model of learning by doing, with junior attorneys regularly getting stand-up work on all their cases. Hours are long, but the firm pays associates well and rewards the hard work with high bonuses, excellent perks, and retreats to celebrate and unwind. Associates also feel represented and heard because all firm matters are voted on by each person at the firm. Promotion to partner isn’t just realistic—it’s expected. Every associate who is brought on board is expected to make partner around the six-year mark. Susman Godfrey is making strides with their diversity efforts. Both co-managing partners represent a minority group, and the firm recently implemented a program for diverse law students that includes a stipend and a coveted summer associate position. Despite the heavy caseload, associates are encouraged to take on pro bono work, and the firm is often a go to for assistance on precedent-setting pro bono matters.