Lateral Attorneys: Integration

We understand that making a lateral move is an important decision and that you are looking for an opportunity to build on the skills you have developed in a community that welcomes you.  At present we have several programs at the firm designed to provide new attorneys with support in their being a part of the Arnold & Porter LLP team.

New Associates Committee. The New Associates Committee is comprised of attorneys and members of the Professional Development staff and is responsible for welcoming and assisting in integrating all new and lateral associates into the firm. The committee oversees each aspect of new and lateral associate integration, including but not limited to orientation, mentoring, training, and social activities.

New and Lateral Associate Orientation. All new and lateral associates joining the firm participate in an orientation program during the first three days of employment to introduce them to the firm, their office, and practice group. Following orientation, the firm’s New Associates Committee hosts a series of “Arnold & Porter Academy” training programs regarding legal and core skills that all new associates need as they get started in their area of practice. All new associates attend the annual New and Lateral Associate Retreat.

New and Lateral Associate Lunch Program. One of the challenges lateral attorneys face when joining the firm is meeting their new colleagues. The New and Lateral Associate lunch program is an informal way to get to know many different attorneys in the firm. During an attorney’s first three months, the firm will sponsor his or her lunches with other firm attorneys.

New and Lateral Associate Mentoring. The firm offers a formal mentoring program for all new, lateral, and mid-level associates. New associates joining the firm are paired by the New Associates Committee with a mid-level associate who can assist with their integration to the firm. Lateral associates have the option of also being paired with a counsel or partner who can provide specific feedback and advice on career development matters.

New and Lateral Associate Retreat. At various times, we gather associates who have recently joined the firm to attend the New and Lateral Associate Retreat. This intensive program covering several days encompasses a range of topics, from the associate evaluation process and billing policies and procedures, to brief drafting and introduction to transactions. We also hold separate concurrent sections for our lateral associates to address their specific needs, including work/life balance best practices, and business development training.