Pros
Simpson LA is totally professional, highly rewarding workplace. Best of big firm clients, compensation and really smart, professional colleagues from top law schools, with a small firm, collegial atmosphere. Where else can you do billion dollar litigation and transactions in a small-firm atmosphere. The lawyers have total respect for support staff and admin. This is not a yelling, screaming place. Talented professionals work together as a team --with the helpful support of a really talented support staff-- to provide efficient, pragmatic results to some of the best clients in the country. Every member of the team is valued. Simpson's great.
Cons
Making partner at Simpson Thacher is nearly impossible. If you are admin or suport staff, this is the place for you, but expect only modest annual salary increases, offset by good job stability. If you are a lawyer, this is a terrific firm for training, professionalism, compensation, collegiality, big-firm support and pedigree resume building, but statistically not the best for making partner.