As much a professional style as personal choice, attorneys keep an open door. Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of the counsel and years of experience of some of the brightest and most respected minds in the legal profession. New associates typically assume a significant amount of early independence and responsibility. It is not unusual for new litigation associates to handle hearings or trials within the first year of practice, or for business associates to find themselves working alongside clients to solve complex problems. Each new associate is assigned to a primary group with an individual supervisor from that group.
Supervisors provide guidance on firm operations and the practice of law.
While new attorneys are given an opportunity to explore their specific areas of interest, they are also introduced to other challenging and evolving areas of the law to which they may not have had prior exposure. It is not uncommon for associates to move among practice groups to explore new interests or to respond to changing or emerging areas of law. While new associates should expect to work diligently honing their legal skills, the rewards are well worth the effort. First-year associate salaries are competitive with other firms in the Pacific Northwest. A living stipend, bar costs and moving expenses are also part of the new associate's benefits.