Kirkland & Ellis Llp

Kirkland & Ellis is best described as the Galactic Empire from Star Wars. Known as the firm to hire when losing isn't an option, Kirkland has a reputation for throwing so many high powered attorneys at a problem, the other side ultimately gives up. They do a lot of work for the GOP as well as the world's biggest banks and corporations.nnUnfortunately, this is where I first encountered workplace discrimination. After working there for over 3 years, the partner in charge of my review decided it was too much of a bother to give me the promotion I earned before I left for law school. I was told that it was a lot of paperwork and I was leaving anyway. My position was then used as an excuse for not hiring me back the next summer. I was given outstanding performance reviews, but I wasn't even granted an interview in the DC office. Someone eventually told me that it was because I was gay.nnDuring my tenure there, I learned a lot about the practice of law and was impressed by the quality of the work product. However, they stressed billing as much as possible and suggested bringing paperwork to the bathroom. You could read and consequently justify billing the client for the time. When I was called to stand for grand jury duty, two attorneys arrived at my office to discuss how I planned to get out of it; they couldn't have me away from the case for that long.nnI struggle with this rating because they are very effective advocates for their clients but are unwaveringly conservative. There is very little diversity in the DC office. Being openly gay was unacceptable, and I never felt that I was treated fairly. Also, the billing is a bit excessive at times. If it weren't for those issues, I would have given them a full 5 stars.