Wilkinson Stekloff

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Don’t let the size of Wilkinson Stekloff mislead you—for associates, the firm offers quality work, BigLaw compensation, and direct experience working with partners. The firm typically looks for candidates with top grades from an elite law school and clerkship experience, and personality matters; the office is pleasant and friendly with occasional social events. Partners are approachable and considerate in soliciting associate help and value associates’ input on case strategy. In addition to the mentors assigned to associates and monthly training sessions, partners give associates meaningful, high-quality tasks and real-world litigation experience. They understand that the more associates know and can do, the more the associates can contribute to the firm. Laterals, mostly from clerkship positions, are onboarded effectively and given assignments early. There’s no shortage of work, so all associates take on interesting projects and likely exceed industry standards for billable hours even though Wilkinson Stekloff imposes no billable hour requirement. Compensation is top-shelf, with market salaries and above-market bonuses. Workout classes and remote counseling sessions are offered to improve wellness, and pro bono work is encouraged because of its community impact and professional development opportunities. The firm offers a 2L Summer Associate Diversity Fellowship to support diversity efforts at the hiring/recruiting level. Given the intentionally small size of the firm, advancement—including promotion to counsel and partner—is very competitive.