Bearable for Biglaw - Associate Sidley Austin Employee Review

4.0
May 24, 2010
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

As Biglaw goes, Sidley is a somewhat more humane place to work than other firms, which admittedly isn't saying much. The people tend to all be polite -- no one who is outright aggressive, but the flipside is a lot of passive aggression. Sidley is generally respectful of taking vacation time and weekends, although this varies by practice group.

Cons

It's Biglaw -- the hours suck and you have little control over your work schedule and work/life balance is difficult to achieve. This is true for any big law firm though.

Explore other reviews about Sidley Austin

5.0
Jul 7, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Working on top tier matters in the industry

Cons

Hours are too long and irregular

1.0
Jul 24, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The folks who have been at Sidley for 3+ years are great.

Cons

HORRIBLE leadership and management at the firm. The workday integration was a mess, and new CHRO has really tanked the company culture. They are also only giving out 3% raises the year the firm has record profits. Associates are burnt out and mean to staff. They underpay staff and then wonder why their best talent is leaving.

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