While the needs of the Firm and its clients are our primary consideration in making assignments to practice groups, each associate has substantial input in that decision. That input includes a say as to when the assignment is made, though most begin specializing within two years. The result is an environment in which attorneys practice in the areas of law that are of most interest to them. Associates have significant control over the direction of their professional growth and enjoy the luxury of sampling from a variety of practice areas. We are proud to provide an opportunity for a broad exposure to the practice of law and believe that this feature sets us apart from many large law firms.

The Firm perceives its professionals as its most vital strategic asset, and therefore the Firm is intensely committed to developing its associates into the best and most well-rounded partners possible. Thus, the Firm budgets significant sums annually for continuing legal education and associate training. It has a standing committee of partners and an executive staff member devoted full time to associate development. The Firm provides, on a continuing basis, a wide array of both formal and informal training, including workshops conducted by outside consulting firms, as well as internal and external continuing legal education. New associates gain valuable experience by working with attorneys on notable cases and transactions from beginning to end and from exposure to a variety of cases and transactions in diverse legal areas. Associate progress is supported through formal performance evaluations and informal, immediate feedback from senior attorneys and partners on individual projects.

In that regard, each entry-level associate is assigned a mentor to provide guidance as needed or requested by the new associate. Initially, our new associates receive an in-depth orientation to explain their role in the Firm and to introduce them to the most basic operating policies and procedures. Brown bag lunches covering a variety of topics, open invitations to attend all practice group meetings, legal writing workshops, in addition to the continuing legal education programs, are available to help our associates progress. The Professional Personnel Committee - Evaluation is a standing committee that stays continuously involved in the training and professional development efforts of all associates as they progress toward partnership. Its existence speaks to the importance that the Firm places on passing on the "Wyatt Way" to all associates.