WilmerHale

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

WilmerHale recruits academically accomplished associates from top law schools and schools near the hiring office. Attorneys and staff are friendly and supportive, and they enjoy social interactions in the office; however, socializing outside of work is limited. Partners value associates. They are approachable, helpful, and dedicated to associate development. Associates are guided by senior associate and partner mentors, and even attorneys not assigned as mentors are willing to help. Onboarding training and practice group presentations are offered for new hires, and CLEs and skills training sessions are available for all associates. Laterals are integrated through an orientation program and staffing. Associates receive interesting, challenging work assignments involving a broad range of issues and responsibilities, with guidance on stretch assignments and client contact. WilmerHale requires 2,000 overall hours to be eligible for a performance bonus. The 2,000 hours must include at least 1,750 client-billable hours; the remaining hours can include time devoted to additional client billable work, pro bono work, non-billable substantive work, and firm citizenship activities. Compensation matches the BigLaw standard, and high performers can earn above-market bonuses. The firm provides useful proprietary tools and emphasizes responsible AI use and training. Wellness benefits include sessions devoted to well-being and on-site gyms. Associates see pro bono opportunities at WilmerHale as a highlight. The firm is devoted to meaningful projects and experiences, providing healthy budgets for pro bono projects, with hours counted as billable. Making equity partner is difficult, and the process is not transparent. Associates may be promoted to counsel or non-equity partner. Those who leave go in-house or to the government.