Seyfarth Shaw Reviews

Pros

Good work. Smart attorneys. Typical work-life balance compared to similar firms. Decent benefits. Firm attempts to communicate with associates and show some level of transparency.

Cons

Particularly since the economic downturn, it is difficult to advance unless you are in L&E. Many non-L&E practice groups no longer get the financial support they had prior to the downturn. New compensation structure for associates is ridiculous. Tauted as better than lock-step because people progress at their own pace and the intent is to move people forward faster. Reality does not bear that out. Many senior associates find that the advancement has slowed and more roadblocks are now in place for advancement. Only lower level associates seem to "benefit" from the new system, but they are also paid the least and their salary increases are much lower than senior associates.

Pros

I was a member of the professional support staff at Seyfarth. Perhaps because of its Midwest roots, Seyfarth Shaw has cultivated a firm culture based on respect and collegiality. There are some personalities and politics to contend with, but minimal for a firm of its size and scope. I enjoyed my tenure at Seyfarth.

Cons

The downside was that my compensation was well below market, which is what eventually led me to be receptive to overtures by a headhunter.

Advice to Senior Management

I think management does a good job of communicating with staff throughout the country. Steve's biannual roadshows were helpful for setting the context of the firm's performance and the market environment.

Pros

The compensation package is commensurate with large firms

Cons

There is not enough mentoring and professional development

Advice to Senior Management

Remember that new associates are learning HOW to be an attorney. Take the time to mentor and provide learning opportunities for yound associates.

Pros

Good Pay.
Good co-workers.
As far as big firms go, I'd go with someone more established and with a wider scope of practice.

Cons

Lack of feedback from management.
Firm is too focused on labor and employment. Go with that is better renowned.

Advice to Senior Management

Provide better feedback to employees on performance and expectations. The firm does not do a good job of this so an attorney doesn't necessarily know where he stands.