Overview
Introduction
Alston & Bird is home to more than 800 attorneys working in eight major practice areas, including in areas for which the firm is recognized, namely, healthcare, privacy & data security, real estate, and tax. The culture is friendly and mentorship is strong across the board. Pro bono work is a source of pride for associates, encouraged by firm leadership, and supported through high billable credit.
Firm Stats
Total No. Attorneys (2024)
No. of Partners Named (2023)
Featured Rankings
No. of 1st Year Associates Hired (2023)
No. of Summer Associates (2024)
Base Salary
Vault Verdict
Favorable office settings and relationships are distinctive aspects of Alston & Bird. Offices often hire from local and regional law schools, and the firm looks beyond academic credentials for personality fit. Work environments are sociable and welcoming, so daily interactions are pleasant. Teamwork is emphasized, even between associates and partners, who employ open-door policies to foster feedback and development. Associates learn best through on-the-job guidance and experience, as formal training is minimal. Lateral hires feel positive about how they’re brought into the firm. Work assignments include some basic tasks, while higher-level work—with appropriate support—gives associates the opportunity to learn and push themselves. Projects are generally distributed fairly,...
About the Firm
Alston & Bird is home to more than 800 lawyers located across the United States in 12 domestic offices and three international locations. The firm has been recognized for its strength in such areas as healthcare, privacy and data security, real estate, and tax.
Shopping for Growth
Atlanta-based Alston & Bird’s predecessor firms date back to 1893. Nearly a century later, the firm known as Alston, Miller & Gaines merged with Jones, Bird & Howell and adopted the name Alston & Bird. The firm’s operations remained in Georgia, where it represented institutions such as CNN, Emory University, and Augusta National founder Bobby Jones, a former firm partner, until the debut of its Washington, DC, office in 1990. A series of mergers and expansion effo...
2025 Vault Rankings
Associate Reviews
- “It's a fantastic culture. Lots of people go into the office, and everyone is very sociable and chatty. The groups are also small, so you really get to know all the partners and associates you work with, but then there is also some opportunity to work across groups and offices, and everyone is just as lovely. I'd say it has such a nice culture in part because it is headquartered out of Atlanta, which sets a nice tone.”
- “The culture is the highlight of the firm. I find lawyers not only enjoy working together but enjoy taking time to socialize and interact at a personal level. The staff members are all extremely bright and personable, making daily interaction pleasant. I am genuinely happy to go to the office as a result.”
- “The firm's culture is great and extremely welcoming and collegial. Attorneys regularly socialize, both organically and at firm-sponsored events. Lawyers are encouraged to attend in-office socials, as well as industry or professional events. The day-to-day atmosphere is welcoming, warm and horizontal. Partners are extremely approachable and receptive. Attorneys and staff work closely and amicably.”
- “Healthy culture—clients are prioritized but not over self, practice group events occur enough to provide collegiality but not so much that they’re overburdensome, day-to-day atmosphere is enjoyable.”
Diversity at Alston & Bird
Getting Hired Here
Hiring Process & Interview Questions
- “We are looking for the same high-quality candidates as other BigLaw firms, but I find that we place a higher value on personality and interpersonal skills than others. If someone can portray academic success, personal drive, and the ability to communicate personably and intelligently, they are likely a good candidate for us.”
- “The firm is extremely focused on fit. The firm really values its culture and places an enormous emphasis on treating people with kindness and respect in the workplace.”
- “The firm lets candidates’ resumes do the talking for the most part. If there is something interesting to discuss, it's brought up. Otherwise, the focus is on learning about candidates on a personal level and determining whether they would contribute to our firm culture.”
- “I believe the firm looks for candidates who are smart, professional, have initiative, and are down-to-earth and interesting people who are enjoyable to spend time with. I have not seen specific guidelines for interviewing candidates, besides general guidance on what the firm is looking to assess.”
Perks & Benefits