Overview
Introduction
M&A giant and leader in the New York legal market, Wachtell Lipton is one of the most elite law firms in the industry. Known for its high-profile matters and above-market compensation, Wachtell Lipton is home to a passionate group of lawyers who embrace hard work and professionalism. The firm is small by elite, BigLaw standards, which fosters a collegial atmosphere, and it has spurned domestic or international expansion, preferring to maintain a sole office in NYC.
Firm Stats
Total No. Attorneys (2024)
No. of Partners Named (2023)
Featured Rankings
No. of 1st Year Associates Hired (2024)
No. of Summer Associates (2024)
Base Salary
Vault Verdict
NYC stalwart Wachtell Lipton, with one office, is small by BigLaw standards but sets the standard for compensation and quality of work. The hiring process is ultracompetitive, with most associates coming from T7 schools with top credentials. Once hired, associates should be prepared for office settings where coworkers are cordial but focused and centered on work. Lean teams mean that partners and associates work closely together; fortunately, partners appreciate and value associates and provide feedback. Partners are also intent on teaching and training associates, who benefit from direct, hands-on experience and strong training programs. Work assignments are challenging and significant, with associates pressed with many opportunities and responsibilities. There is no shortage of ...
Firm's Response
Wachtell Lipton was founded on a handshake in 1965 as a small group of lawyers dedicated to providing advice and expertise at the highest levels. We have achieved extraordinary results following the distinctive vision of our founders — a cohesive team of lawyers intensely focused on solving our clients’ most important problems.
&l...About the Firm
Each year, a significant chunk of the world’s deals—major mergers and acquisitions, antitrust and shareholder litigation, big-name restructurings, and multibillion-dollar real estate ventures—are cranked through the well-oiled machine that is Wachtell Lipton. Manning the apparatus are a gifted few whose compensation is far above industry standards. Although it may not be the biggest or highest-revenue-generating firm, it is the most profitable place in the world to practice law. Wachtell Lipton is one of the smallest firms in the AmLaw 100, but it is continuously one of the top firms (and usually the top firm) when it comes to public-private partnerships. It also offers compensation for first-year associates that exceeds the market rate.
The New York Four
Founded i...
Associate Reviews
- “Everyone values hard work and dedication, meaning everyone tends to be busy focused on their team projects, but great to see people at lunches and other events.”
- “Folks are absolutely dedicated to their work, and this, of course, limits social interactions. Nonetheless, lunches and dinners are always great opportunities to catch up with colleagues. The firm also regularly sponsors events to socialize and meet new attorneys, including our Dinner Around Town program. Interactions between attorneys and staff are professional and respectful.”
- “Socially, the culture is great. People are really nice and love chatting. I've made good friends who I hang out with outside of the office often. Professionally, the hours are VERY long, and people are extremely dedicated to working. You pretty much always need to be online/available as a junior associate.”
- “Lawyers socialize, but we're often too busy to attend firm events. Still, the culture is very friendly and respectful. The interactions between lawyers and staff are extremely cordial.”
Why Work Here
Wachtell Lipton is dedicated to providing advice and expertise at the highest levels and to achieving extraordinary results for our clients. We seek individuals who are talented, motivated and committed in order to maintain our record of excellence. Our associates, paralegals and administrative staff are critical to this mission. Our lawyers and staff work closely together across departments comprising an elite legal team. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.
Wachtell Lipton is an equal opportunity employer. As such, it adheres to an employment policy that prohibits discriminatory practices or harassment against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor(s) including, but not necessarily limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability or any protected military or veteran status.
Diversity at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz
Getting Hired Here
- “The firm only recruits from about seven schools but accepts applications from those who do not attend those schools. The firm is looking for very smart problem-solvers, and very strong grades.”
- “Fairly substantive questions. Often there is a question about the candidate's favorite law school subject, and then a follow-up about a specific aspect of that subject that the candidate would need to demonstrate understanding of and talk about intelligently.”
- “The interview questions are generally more substantive than interviews at other firms, and a candidate is more likely to be pushed on legal issues.”
Perks & Benefits