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Arnold & Porter Lateral Profile 2025
There is a saying that “integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching,” and if we are to judge law firms by that metric, Arnold & Porter would notably stick out. For juniors, one of the firm’s defining features was its strong pro bono practice. As one source beamed, “the amount of, and the commitment to pro bono at the firm is what makes us different to others.” In Chambers USA, the firm's expertise covers over 60 departments, with particular nods going to corporate/M&A, litigation, bankruptcy/restructuring, environment, real estate, false claims and more. But the real clincher for most of our sources was the people: “everyone here is super nice and friendly. I think it goes hand in hand here, people dedicated to pro bono show they’re more selfless and compassionate.”
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…
“I chose Arnold & Porter for its excellent reputation in both commercial litigation and pro bono work and based on the people I met during the interview process.”
“This firm has prestigious specific practice areas, effective practice management, multiple exit opportunities and resources for exit options or tracks for partnerships, and a hybrid model for work from home.”
“Arnold & Porter has a top tier antitrust practice that allows associate to become subject matter experts.”
Career Development & the Path to Partnership
|
14 |
1.5 : 1 |
73% |
||
|
partners made in 2024 |
associate : partner gearing |
of associates intend to make partner |
||
|
62% |
55% |
78% |
||
| felt partnership was achievable for attorneys with childcare/caregiver responsibilities | felt partnership was achievable at the firm | agreed partners are nurturing future leaders |
||
Hours & Compensation
|
2,000 |
13 |
51 |
|
billable hours |
average number of vacation days associates took in one year |
average number of hours associates worked in one week |
|
61% |
79% |
77% |
| agreed they had a good work-life balance |
felt like they could take vacation/annual leave on their own terms |
found the firm's claims around bonus allocation to be authentic |
Salaries
1st year: $225,000
2nd year: $235,000
3rd year: $260,000
4th year: $310,000
5th year: $365,000
6th year: $390,000
7th year: $420,000
8th year: $435,000
Is Arnold & Porter the right firm for you?
|
81% |
86% |
88% |
|
were happy in their current role |
agreed the work they received was of the right quality |
felt that they chose the right firm |
Here's what survey respondents had to say about the firm's culture...
“Arnold & Porter is an amazing firm with a great reputation whose core values guide our approach to work, our clients, and each other. Arnold & Porter values associates at every level and is committed to development.”
“The firm invests heavily in professional development for its associates and has an amazing culture of collegiality. It also has a more robust pro bono practice than many other top firms. I feel very supported as I advance in my career.”
“I appreciate the firm's commitment to pro bono work. The firm culture is friendly.”
Pro Bono
|
undisclosed |
96% |
|
average pro bono |
agreed the firm puts effort towards its commitment to pro bono and social impact activity |
Pro bono highlights: Secured release of wrongfully convicted client after almost 29 years in prison; Significant housing rights case; Supreme Court victory protecting veterans from job discrimination; Family and children’s defense; Major criminal justice class action.
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