Top flight firm that demands a lot of its attorneys, but treats them and pays them well - Associate Attorney Sidley Austin Employee Review

4.0
Jun 11, 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Top Chicago firm prestige, potential for high quality of work, lots of interesting co-workers in a very team-oriented atmosphere, lots of good/great exit options, some really great attorneys who really care about the firm and are often invested in associates' success. If you want to be in Chicago this name is hard to beat and has the perception of being a little friendlier than the other mega-firms in town. Training is top-dollar.

Cons

extreme hourly expectations, large masses of associates, junior associates somewhat overlooked and have the potential to be pigeon-holed. Constant associate turnover creates lack of continuity on projects. Sometimes feels like practice groups are isolated.

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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