If you are not a white male, this firm is unlikely to support your success or well-being. While the company heavily markets itself as “DEI-focused,” the reality paints a very different picture. Leadership remains overwhelmingly homogenous, and racialized employees who do not conform to white-passing cultural or social norms receive minimal support.
Employees are frequently encouraged to “be a team player” (which often means assimilating), “socialize” (which equates to participating in drinking culture), or “hustle/be an entrepreneur” (essentially working harder to navigate biased systems). Written policies designed to support diversity and inclusion have little practical impact. For example, racialized partners who attempt to advocate for change or bring fresh perspectives are often silenced or antagonized. This not only impedes meaningful progress but also creates a demoralizing environment for associates, who struggle to find cultural buy-in when senior leaders are routinely dismissed.
The firm appears to have jumped on the diversity bandwagon without understanding—or caring—how to support those it hires. Discrimination is frequently reframed as isolated incidents or unintentional "accidents" to be overlooked, leaving employees to feel as though they are the problem rather than victims of systemic issues.
Despite efforts to rebrand, the firm’s underlying “white frat bro” culture remains intact. If you do not fit this mold, you will likely encounter significant barriers to both career progression and daily workplace interactions. While there are kind and well-meaning individuals within the organization, this does not negate the structural inadequacies or the dismissive attitudes prevalent in leadership.
For anyone considering joining, I strongly recommend reviewing the firm’s leadership and lawyer roster to see for yourself. The results are not by chance.
