“You can’t get any more DC than Wiley!” This one-office firm has built one of the best reputations for government and political law work in the country.
Wiley Lateral Profile 2023
'If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ is a pretty good maxim to follow, and wise Wiley has stuck to a formula that works very well: a one-office model in DC; a focus on areas that intersect with the function and operations of government; and a wholesome culture where people are “down to earth and super open to chatting with you from the get-go.” This source accurately declared that “you can’t get any more DC than Wiley!”
Wiley’s government contracts, political law, international trade and False Claims Act work receives nationwide acclaim in Chambers USA, but its expertise in sectors such as insurance, media, and telecommunications is also lauded in DC. On the litigation side, Wiley is recognized both for its capabilities in white-collar and government investigations matters and general commercial disputes.
View the firm’s Chambers USA rankings
Read the firm’s Inside View feature on junior associate life
Why did you join your firm? Associates say…
“Wiley is a DC powerhouse that is more family friendly than comparable firms.”
“Wiley has the perks of traditional BigLaw firms - great pay, resources, complex matters - but is known for a more relaxed culture.”
“Culture, opportunities for advancement, regulatory practices, number of successful female partners.”
Career Development & the Path to Partnership
|
7 |
0.6 : 1 |
70% |
||
|
partners made in 2022 |
associate : partner gearing |
of associates intend to make partner |
||
|
100% |
70% |
80% |
||
| felt partnership was achievable for attorneys with children | felt partnership was achievable at the firm | agreed partners are nurturing future leaders |
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The view from the firm: The firm's investment in its associates includes:
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Associates Committee – Comprised of partners and associates, the Committee designs and administers programs that enhance the professional development of the firm’s associates and plans social and community service events (because the firm knows there is more to work than work!).
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Mentoring and Sponsorship – Wiley’s two-phase mentor program provides individualized support to developing attorneys at every stage in their career as attorneys never stop learning and growing. Phase one mentors assist with the transition from law school and phase two sponsors are partners charged with helping sponsor associates’ successful futures.
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Education, Training, and Practice – The firm holds over 100 in-house training programs each year to help attorneys become the best they can be.
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Evaluation and Advancement - The firm has a comprehensive formal evaluation program that makes sure associates are growing and developing as they navigate through their careers.
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Integration – Wiley offers robust integration plans for all attorneys so that new attorneys easily feel at home and learn what makes the firm unique – and excel.
Hours & Compensation
|
1,950 |
8.1 |
51.9 |
|
billable hours |
average number of vacation days associates took in one year |
average number of hours associates worked in one week |
|
80% |
80% |
30% |
| agreed they had a good work-life balance |
said the benefits package makes the workload worthwhile |
found the bonus allocation fair and transparent |
Salaries
1st year: $215,000
2nd year: $225,000
3rd year: $250,000
4th year: $295,000
5th year: $345,000
6th year: $370,000
*The firm does not disclose salaries beyond this point.
The view from the firm: Associates are expected to bill 1,950 hours and can receive up to 50 hours of credit for pro bono work. Wiley’s flexible work policy involves a hybrid approach to work, which includes flexibility to work in the office and in a remote location. Attorneys may work up to 50% of their time remotely outside of the office and the remaining time on-site, typically two or three days in the office each week. Attorneys will design a weekday schedule that suits them best. Attorneys are also eligible for up to two non-consecutive “remote weeks” per year, where they may work remotely from an alternate remote location without using leave time.
Is Wiley the right firm for you?
|
92% |
92% |
|
were happy in their current role |
agreed the work is interesting |
The view from the firm: Wiley looks for applicants with strong academic credentials, professional experience, and initiative. The firm hires not only the best candidates, but the best people. Wiley seeks out people who share its view that a workplace should be measured not only by professional achievement but also by personal satisfaction. In return, the firm is committed to unparalleled professional development and uncommon opportunity.
We asked survey respondents what stands out about the firm’s culture?
“There is no cut-throat culture: the partners and senior associates are always willing to grab coffee and chat about your career or life goals or to answer any questions you have about a project.”
“Mastery of the line between caring about each person as a human that needs rest and life outside of work with producing excellent work product, bringing in interesting clients.”
“That Wiley specifically tries to set itself apart for work-life balance.”
Diversity, Inclusion & Wellbeing
|
92% |
35% |
35% |
||
|
reported strong performance in inclusivity training |
of partners are women |
of associates identify as ethnically diverse |
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Pro Bono
|
31 |
78% |
|
average pro bono |
agreed the firm is committed to pro bono |
Pro bono highlights: Maryland Coalition for Justice and Police Accountability and the Maryland ACLU (racial justice); Law Firm Antiracism Alliance Project (child welfare); Disability Rights Maryland (disability rights in education)
Contact
Learn more about opportunities at the firm
Recruitment contact: Meghan Holl, Legal Talent Recruiting Assistant, mholl@wiley.law