Advance Your Career

We assign associates to one of our practice groups based on identified skills, their preferences, their experience, and our needs. Associates are quickly given as much responsibility as they demonstrate that they are able to effectively manage. This responsibility includes hands-on projects and extensive client interaction.

The practice groups provide associates with support from those working on similar matters. While legal specialization is encouraged, many attorneys work in multiple areas and collaborate across practice groups, particularly when dictated by client needs.

Training

We view the training and development of our attorneys as critical for maintaining and growing Downey Brand’s reputation.

The firm has a formal training rubric that incorporates both internal and external programs to ensure our attorneys are proficient in all aspects of practicing law—from written discovery, to mediation and alternative dispute resolution, to negotiating and drafting agreements. We hold on-site seminars throughout the year that focus on a variety of substantive issues. We bring in outside experts like accountants and court staff to expose our attorneys to a broad range of experience. In addition, we pay the cost for attorneys to pursue additional training outside the firm that is offered through bar associations and professional trade groups, including NITA Deposition and Trial Skills and Bryan Garner legal writing workshops (both litigation- and contract-based).

Mentoring

We understand that active mentorship is necessary to build an inclusive and supportive community. We have implemented a robust mentorship program to help new attorneys to the firm maximize their professional success at Downey Brand. The program includes:

  • Junior associates in their first through fourth years of practice are assigned a formal mentor upon starting at Downey Brand. This mentor is a senior associate or junior partner from the same practice group.  The mentor is able to help the junior associate learn how to navigate the firm on both a professional and personal level. Junior associates report that they enjoy the benefits of having a formal mentor assigned to them for the first four years of practice.
  • Mid- to senior-level associates receive ongoing mentorship from senior attorneys and partners within their practice groups. In addition to this substantive mentoring, these associates also participate in a quarterly lunch program, where every three months they are paired for a lunch with partners from outside their practice groups. The quarterly lunch program ensures that the associates have the opportunity to interact with partners from all practice groups, and it fosters informal mentoring relationships from all of the firms’ diverse resources.
  • Lateral attorneys also receive a formal mentor assignment for their first year after joining the firm. Like with the junior associates, the mentors are typically assigned from within the same practice group, with the focus of those relationships being on acclimating to life at Downey Brand.

In addition to the foregoing, Downey Brand hosts CLE programs that focus on a variety of substantive issues, and regularly sends associates to outside CLE trainings, including but not limited to NITA deposition and trial trainings and Bryan Garner legal writing workshops (both litigation- and contract-based).

To incentive attorneys to fully engage in the mentorship programs, the firm annually awards prizes and accolades to mentors who receive the highest reviews from their mentees. These prizes have included travel vouchers, trophies, and bragging rights.

Evaluations

In order to help associates meet their professional development goals, performance evaluations are conducted annually each fall by the partners. The firm has developed checklists to ensure that all associates are getting the substantive opportunities they need to keep their development on pace. In addition, first-year associates and lateral attorneys receive a mid-year evaluation after their first six months at the firm. The evaluation process constructively identifies specific strengths and areas for improvement in order to maximize legal skills, business judgment, and professional development for each of Downey Brand’s attorneys.

Compensation

Associates are paid based on their class year at competitive rates using an automatic lockstep increase, with raises effective on January 1 of each year. After six months of employment, associates can participate in our bonus system, which contains clearly articulated guidelines for annual bonuses. Partners may also choose to award “spot bonuses” at any time during the year to recognize excellence, diligence, or an outstanding result.

Benefits

At Downey Brand, we prioritize the well-being and success of our attorneys. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package for all attorneys working a minimum of 30 hours per week, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage – Robust health plans designed to meet your needs
  • Life Insurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones
  • 401(k) Plan with Employer Match – We’re invested in your future
  • Employer Contribution Plan – Additional savings for your long-term security
  • Paid and Unpaid Parental Leave – Supporting you through life’s big moments
  • Paid Parking or Transportation Stipend – Convenience and ease when commuting to work
  • Technology Stipend – Tools to keep you productive, no matter where you are
  • Generous Vacation – Take the time you need to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life blend
  • Relocation Bonus – A smooth transition with financial support if you’re joining us from out of town
  • Pre-Tax Flexible Spending Account – Maximize savings on healthcare and dependent care expenses
  • Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance – Financial protection for you in case of illness or injury
  • Employee Assistance Program – Access to confidential counseling and support resources
  • Bar Dues and Continuing Education Expenses – We invest in your professional development and career growth
  • Firm Retreat and Social Events – Build relationships and connect with colleagues in a relaxed, enjoyable setting

We’re committed to supporting your career and personal growth, offering a collaborative, inclusive environment where you can thrive.

Bar-Related Expenses for New Associates

If you accept the firm’s offer of employment prior to taking the bar exam, we will reimburse you for documented expenses customarily incurred when taking the exam. Additionally, the firm provides a $6,500 bar study stipend to all incoming first-year associates.