The BigLaw Bear Library
Everything you need to navigate BigLaw recruiting: guides, data, and firm intel.
Life as an Associate: 20 articles
What 'Work-Life Balance' Means at BigLaw
It doesn't mean what it means at other jobs. But that doesn't mean it's meaningless.
2 min read
What They Don't Tell You About BigLaw Before You Start
The recruiting brochure version of BigLaw is polished. Here are the unwritten rules and realities no one mentions until you're already there.
4 min read
Can You Transfer BigLaw Offices?
You started in New York but want to move to LA. Here's how office transfers work in BigLaw.
2 min read
What Is the Mansfield Rule?
You've seen firms tout Mansfield certification. Here's what it actually means and whether it matters.
2 min read
Is BigLaw Worth It? An Honest Cost-Benefit Analysis
The honest answer isn't yes or no, it depends on what you're optimizing for. Here's the real math and the real tradeoffs.
4 min read
How Long Do People Actually Stay in BigLaw?
The average BigLaw stint is shorter than you think. Here's the data and the reasons behind it.
2 min read
Your First BigLaw Assignment: What to Expect
Day one is over. Now someone needs a memo by Friday. Here's how to handle your first real assignment.
3 min read
Finding Mentors as an Underrepresented Student
You need mentors who get it. Here's how to find them without being awkward about it.
3 min read
How to Evaluate a Firm's Diversity Record
Every firm says diversity matters. Here's how to check if they mean it.
2 min read
What If You Don't Like Your Practice Group?
You're six months in and you hate the work. Here are your actual options.
3 min read
Counsel vs. Of Counsel vs. Partner Explained
These titles are confusing and firms use them differently. Here's what each one actually means.
3 min read
Can You Email a BigLaw Partner Directly?
Short answer: yes, if you do it right. Here's when it makes sense and how to not embarrass yourself.
3 min read
What Are Billable Hours and How Do They Work?
Billable hours are the currency of BigLaw. Here's how they actually work in practice.
2 min read
Which Practice Areas Have Best Work-Life Balance?
Work-life balance in BigLaw is relative. But some practice areas are genuinely better than others.
2 min read
How to Research a Firm's Pro Bono Program
Some firms walk the talk. Others just talk. Here's how to tell.
2 min read
What Is the Partnership Track in BigLaw?
Making partner is the brass ring of BigLaw. Here's what the track actually looks like, how long it takes, and what the odds really are.
3 min read
Do BigLaw Firms Offer Parental Leave?
The policies have improved a lot. Here's what top firms actually offer and what to watch out for.
3 min read
What Is BigLaw Burnout?
It's not just being tired. Here's what burnout actually looks like in BigLaw, why it happens, and what you can do about it.
3 min read
How Many Hours Do BigLaw Associates Actually Work?
1,950 billable hours sounds manageable until you learn what 'billable' actually means.
3 min read
Evaluating a Firm's Affinity Groups
Every firm has affinity groups. Not all of them are equal. Here's how to tell which ones actually matter.
2 min read