Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP

Paul Weiss holds Band 1 rankings in Chambers USA for Private Equity, Corporate/M&A, White-Collar Crime, Litigation, and Restructuring. The firm's private equity practice represents major sponsors on leveraged buyouts and fund formations, while its litigation department is one of the most respected in the country for high-stakes commercial disputes, securities enforcement, and white-collar defense. Paul Weiss's restructuring practice consistently ranks among the top nationally, and the firm is deeply involved in bet-the-company litigation matters.

Paul Weiss uses a free-market assignment system and is rated an Excellent Performer for Pro Bono by Chambers Associate. Associates describe the culture as open, social, and team-oriented, with strong mentorship at every level. Pro bono work at the firm spans civil rights, criminal justice, immigration, voting rights, and anti-gun violence, reflecting the firm's long history of commitment to public interest work. Associates report that partners are invested in development and that the environment is collaborative rather than individualistic. The summer class is approximately 169 associates.

Paul Weiss has a distinctive civil rights heritage. Co-founder Simon Rifkind was a prominent advocate for civil rights causes, and the firm played a significant role in landmark civil rights litigation. Notable alumni include former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark, former SEC Commissioner Roberta Karmel, and multiple federal judges. The firm's combination of corporate firepower and public interest commitment gives it a unique identity among its peers.