Overview
Introduction
With a Midwestern culture of collegiality and teamwork, Jones Day is among the best of the best in the legal industry. Home to more than 2,500 attorneys in dozens of worldwide offices, clients can call upon vast resources and exceptional legal talent across jurisdictions and practice areas. The firm boasts a long list of stand out practices—from labor and employment to private equity to appellate litigation—and is a leader in the pro bono space.
Firm Stats
Total No. Attorneys (2022)
No. of Partners Named (2022)
Featured Rankings
No. of 1st Year Associates Hired (2022)
No. of Summer Associates (2022)
Base Salary
Vault Verdict
With modest beginnings in Cleveland, Ohio, Jones Day has vaulted to elite status in the legal profession and has become one of the largest (and most profitable) worldwide firms. The firm hires associates from T14 law schools and looks at grades, journal membership, and clerkship experience; however, many candidates (with the right credentials) are hired from schools in the same city or region as the interviewing office. Jones Day offers a relaxed and collaborative work setting, and social gatherings flow naturally among attorneys. The NLG, or New Lawyers Group, serves as a means of integration for new hires, though integration of lateral hires could be better. Associates interact frequently and enjoy strong relationships with partners, who are respectful and supportive in providin...
About the Firm
A heavy hitter with a hand in most major areas of law and an internationally recognized prowess in litigation, Jones Day boasts 42 offices in 17 countries, spread over five continents. The firm’s booming practices include antitrust, appellate litigation, financial markets, international law, IP, labor and employment, M&A, private equity, securities, and securities litigation—to name a handful.
A Worldwide Firm with Midwest Roots
Founded in Cleveland in 1893 by Judge Edwin Blandin and William Lowe Rice, Jones Day made its name by representing Midwestern manufacturers and transportation companies. One of the first firms in the nation to adopt a corporate management structure, Jones Day continued its rise by opening a Washington, DC, office in 1946. The years since the firm’s foun...
2023 Vault Rankings
Associate Reviews
- “Jones Day is very collegial. It may sound trite, but the Midwestern roots are evident. It is not a flashy place. On the whole, most attorneys are polite, kind, and respectful. Relations between lawyers and staff are respectful—anything less is not tolerated.”
- “Jones Day attempts to create a collegial and professional culture across its global footprint. Much of the culture, however, is largely practice, office and work-team based. Good leaders (partners and senior associates) are best positioned to create better working conditions. Formal socialization is sporadic and mostly during office hours, which is preferred. Informal socialization is independently driven by lawyers and leaders, and depends on desire. A decent mix.”
- “The day-to-day atmosphere is fine. At least among litigators in our office, partners are demanding but respectful, cordial, and generally easy to get along with. Associates are overworked but get along and tend to have a ‘we're in this together’ attitude. Staff is respected as far as I have seen; I do not think there would be much tolerance for anyone disrespecting staff. In terms of socializing, there are a number of groups that socialize, usually within practice groups or new lawyer classes, and the firm does try to host social events, though they often feel forced.”
Why Work Here
One Firm Worldwide
Jones Day is a global law firm with more than 2,500 lawyers in 42 offices across five continents. The Firm is distinguished by: a singular tradition of client service; the mutual commitment to, and the seamless collaboration of, a true partnership; formidable legal talent across multiple disciplines and jurisdictions; and shared professional values that focus on client needs. Our culture of collaboration creates unparalleled opportunities to work with a global, diverse team on complex client matters, serve the community in vital pro bono activities, promote social justice initiatives launched and directed by Firm leadership, advocate for the rule of law around the world, and grow both personally and professionally.
Diversity at Jones Day
Getting Hired Here
- “Hiring is extremely competitive. Most associates come from T14 schools and have stellar grades, journal experience, and diverse backgrounds.”
- “The ideal candidate usually comes from a T14 school or a law school in the same city as the interviewing office, and has a stellar academic record. Grades are important, but they are far from the only factor considered by the firm. The interview is very important. Arrogance or a poor personality can be a deal breaker for candidates who otherwise look great on paper. Likability and great interpersonal skills can also go a long way for a candidate's chances to work at the firm.”
- “The hiring process is lengthy and highly competitive. Clerkships are an important consideration and T14 schools are consistent feeder schools, but the firm does not write off candidates from lower ranked schools if the applicant possesses the right credentials."
