Legal Professionals

What is the atmosphere of the firm on a day-to-day basis? The atmosphere at Venable is encouraging and collegial, as well as challenging and stimulating. We value our friendly, team-oriented work environment, which encourages professional development, good associate-partner relationships, and early client contact. Our firm's friendly atmosphere, coupled with a high level of professionalism, provides an environment that promotes learning and professional satisfaction. Training and Professional Development Venable associates receive training and development opportunities that go beyond traditional CLE. Associates of all levels receive guidance about core competencies and expectations as they develop their professional skills. Junior associates prepare for early client interaction through programs focusing on oral communication, writing, networking, and business acumen, while more senior associates are offered programs needed for leadership roles such as management and business development. Associates also enjoy virtually unlimited access to various internal and external legal training programs to keep them up to date on trends and changes in the laws in their practice area and equip them with the skills needed to provide optimal service to their clients. In addition, every associate has an annual meeting with a designated evaluation partner to discuss not only feedback on performance, but also the professional goals in their personal Career Development Plan. Our Professional Development and Training Department will help identify the right resources—be it training or coaching opportunities—to achieve those goals. What is your office dress code? Venable has a "Dress for Your Day" policy. If you will be meeting clients or visitors, business attire is required. For all other occasions, business attire is appropriate, but business casual attire is acceptable. What are the firm's billable and non-billable hour requirements? The minimum billable hour target for Venable associates is 1,850 hours, except for associates in the Preceptor Program. (This program includes entry-level associates and associates who were judicial clerks but have not yet practiced law. The billable hour requirement for this group is 1,800 hours for their first year.) All associates are expected to work a combined total of 2,200 hours each year. In addition to billable time, the additional hours may include such activities as professional development, pro bono service, firm committee work, and business development efforts. What does Venable pay for in connection with taking the bar? The firm pays for the bar review course, the bar exam fee, and the bar admission fee. Does Venable hire judicial clerks? We always consider resumes from judicial clerks. Interested candidates should email their resume and transcripts to the proper legal recruiting contact.