How much pro bono work do Kramer Levin lawyers do?

Pro bono work is an important part of our practice, although there is no mandatory pro bono requirement. Our Firm was a charter member of Volunteers of Legal Service, Inc. (VOLS), which was launched as a pro bono project of the Association of the Bar of the City of New York in 1984. As a VOLS participating firm, we pledge to devote a minimum overall of 30 hours per year per attorney. In most years, we substantially exceed this 30-hour minimum figure. The Firm is also a signatory of the Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge, sponsored by the Pro Bono Institute, through which we pledge to devote three percent of our billable time to qualifying pro bono legal services.

Do pro bono hours count toward billing targets or associate bonuses?

Absolutely. In addition to billable hours, pro bono work, recruiting events, certain forms of business development, and a number of other non-billable activity hours are eligible towards the bonus hours threshold.

Is there a minimum billable hours requirement for associates?

No, Kramer Levin does not have a minimum billable hours requirement for its associates, but bonuses begin at 2,000 billable and bonus-eligible non-billable hours.  

What is the dress code at the Firm?

The Firm adheres to a business casual dress policy.

What is the average time for an associate to become a partner at Kramer Levin?

Associates are generally eligible to be considered for promotion to partnership or special counsel after approximately eight and one-half years of practice.

Are there ways in which associates can participate in Firm management?

Attorneys at all levels take an active part in Kramer Levin's management and direction. To facilitate this, associates elect representatives to the Associates Committee which discusses matters of interest to the associates and the firm. The Committee meets with the Managing Partner throughout the year. Associates also participate in four other key Firm Committees: Recruiting, Summer Associate Steering, Pro Bono and Diversity.

Does Kramer Levin have an alternative work schedule/part-time policy?

Yes! The Firm recognizes that over the course of a long career, family or other compelling personal circumstances may arise that require a lawyer to seek some accommodations in his or her schedule in order to help balance the demands of personal life with the responsibilities of professional life. Kramer Levin appreciates that a lawyer can work a reduced schedule and make a meaningful contribution to the Firm’s practice.

What technology does Kramer Levin provide its attorneys?

The Firm supplies Blackberry™ handheld devices to all attorneys. In addition, the Firm will subsidize a personal computer through its Home Computer Reimbursement Program for associates and special counsel.

Does Kramer Levin have a global reach and a recognizable client base?

Our clients range from Fortune 100 and Global 1000 companies, privately held companies, individuals, and emerging growth entities, across a broad range of industries. The firm also has a Paris office and close relationships with law firms throughout the world who refer work to the New York office.