Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie's private equity and asset management practices are consistently top-ranked, advising major sponsors on fund formation, acquisitions, and portfolio company matters. The firm's restructuring and bankruptcy group is elite, and its litigation practice -- particularly in securities and white-collar defense -- punches well above its weight. With approximately 1,240 attorneys and an impressive $4.2M in profits per partner, Willkie delivers profitability that rivals firms twice its size. The free-market assignment system and absence of a billable hour requirement create an environment where quality work matters more than face time.

Willkie's no-billable-requirement policy signals a culture of trust that associates consistently praise. Partners are described as demanding but fair, and the mentorship culture benefits from Willkie's size -- large enough for sophisticated deal flow but small enough that senior attorneys know junior associates by name. Training combines formal programs with the hands-on learning that comes from working on complex PE transactions from day one. The summer program of approximately 151 associates is one of the larger programs in New York, and the 100% offer rate reflects the firm's commitment to hiring people it intends to keep.

Willkie's OCI interviews are conducted by experienced partners and associates, often alumni of the school where they are interviewing. Callbacks are straightforward: four attorneys (typically two partners and two associates) plus a meeting with the recruiter. Interviewers want to understand your interest in specific markets and practice areas, particularly private equity and fund formation. The tone is conversational, and candidates rate the difficulty as moderate. To stand out, demonstrate that you understand the PE deal cycle and can articulate why Willkie's platform -- not just its compensation -- appeals to you.