New associates are generally assigned to a specific department in which they have expressed an interest upon their arrival. We firmly believe that concentration in particular practice areas is crucial to competent representation of clients in a complex legal and business environment.
Our greatest resource is our attorneys. Our goal is for every lawyer to be able to handle competently the most complex work in his or her area of expertise with full client satisfaction. Associates are encouraged to attend continuing legal education seminars offered by bar associations and other accredited organizations as well as those seminars presented in-house. All departments schedule informal lunch meetings, whose topics range from recent legal developments to current matters within that department. Each department chair monitors new associates and their work load. Additionally, an associate is assigned a mentor from within the department for day-to-day guidance.
Junior associates are evaluated semi-annually. While the evaluations are considered when determining bonuses and raises, they also serve as a progress report to the new associate in order to gauge one's own progress.
All associates are encouraged to become active in professional and community affairs. The Firm places a high regard on teaching and publication of articles in professional venues.