Walker began his legal career with Dewey. While Paul Hastings regretted the loss, some of its attorneys didn t seem too upset to see Walker go. Indeed, according to the same article, Walker had invited most of Paul Hasting s real estate practice to follow him to Dewey Ballantine most refused. As with most top firms, grades are the biggest driving force behind the hiring of law students, though Dewey isn t a hard grade place like other firms. Those ranking in the top 20 to 30 percent of their classes can get a look from Dewey Ballantine.
Journals are also a big plus, according to another associate.
Insiders suggest that prospective Deweyites take advantage of this second round to meet with the people you will be working with. That contact opines that the associates are generally very open and forthcoming with their descriptions of the work environment and what is expected of you. There is little cutthroat competition or backstabbing. For the most part, Dewey insiders tell us that hours can be good or bad, but mostly bad. Another concurs in noting that it s feast or famine.