Flip-Flops and Fortune 500 Clients at Quinn Emanuel
Tom Borman, LawFuel contributing editor
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, the world’s “most feared” law firm according to BTI Consulting, is redefining the traditional law firm experience with a fresh approach that’s turning heads in the legal world.
Gone are the days of stuffy offices and rigid dress codes. Instead, Quinn Emanuel’s new Manhattan headquarters feels more like a trendy co-working space, complete with frosted glass walls, cutting-edge conference rooms, and an abundance of greenery that requires its own irrigation system.
It’s a transformation for the law firm that is no accident.
Rather, it is a deliberate strategy to make on-site work as appealing as possible, especially given the firm’s groundbreaking “work-from-anywhere” (WFA) policy. Introduced in 2021 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this policy has become a cornerstone of Quinn Emanuel’s ethos.
Jennifer Barrett, co-managing partner of the New York office, (pictured) sums it up perfectly: “Nothing’s mandated. That’s not the Quinn way.
“Since its inception in Los Angeles in 1986 by John Quinn, the firm has cultivated a reputation for bucking trends and embracing a more relaxed, West Coast-inspired approach.
This progressive stance extends beyond just office decor and dress codes. Quinn Emanuel has consistently pushed the envelope in terms of workplace policies, setting itself apart in a field often associated with tradition and formality.
“Talent Mandatory, Office Optional”
The firm’s commitment to flexibility is particularly appealing to the younger generation of lawyers.
A recent American Bar Association survey revealed that 44% of young attorneys would consider leaving their current firm for greater remote work opportunities. Quinn Emanuel’s WFA policy puts them ahead of the curve, as the legal industry gradually shifts towards hybrid work models.
But it’s not just about where you work; it’s about how you work. Quinn Emanuel is known for its high-stakes litigation and represents high-profile clients like Elon Musk and Alec Baldwin. This combination of flexibility and high-powered work creates an enticing proposition for ambitious lawyers seeking both challenge and work-life balance.
The firm’s unconventional approach extends to its recruitment strategies as well. In 2017, Quinn Emanuel made waves by overhauling its hiring process, focusing on 3Ls, clerks, and lateral hires instead of the traditional summer associate program.
However, recognizing the value in capturing top talent early, they’ve since reintroduced a modified summer program, demonstrating their willingness to adapt and evolve.
Quinn Emanuel’s success speaks for itself. The London office reported a staggering 47 percent increase in revenue for the 2023 financial year, with profits soaring by 60 percent, as we recently reported.
This financial triumph, coupled with strategic talent acquisition, has solidified the firm’s position as a powerhouse in the legal world.
From its laid-back dress code (flip-flops are not an uncommon sight) to its cutting-edge work environments and flexible policies, Quinn Emanuel is crafting a new narrative in the world of Big Law.
It’s a story of innovation, adaptability, and success – proving that even in the most traditional of professions, there’s room for disruption and change2.
For young lawyers and seasoned professionals alike, Quinn Emanuel offers a compelling blend of high-stakes work, flexibility, and a culture that values individuality. In a field often criticized for its rigid structures, Quinn Emanuel stands out as a noticeable exception to the rule about how a top-tier law firm operating in the 21st century can operate – and do so with conspicuous success. century.
I’m curious about how Quinn Emanuel’s ‘work-from-anywhere’ policy has influenced their hiring strategy. Do they prioritize skills and experience over geographical location now?
really loving the vibe quinn emanuel is going for with their office. greenery and modern meeting rooms sound way better than the old stuffy law firms
Wonder how much that fancy office and plants cost them. Bet those costs trickle down to clients in the end.
It’s actually great for mental health to have a greener workplace, so it might be worth the investment!
While the modern design is appealing, I question whether it truly enhances productivity or just serves as a marketing tool to attract young talent.
This approach to the workspace and the whole WFA policy makes law seem more accessible and less intimidating. Might actually consider law as a career now.
But how does this WFA policy affect teamwork and client relations? There has to be some drawbacks.
In my experience, tech tools have really bridged the gap for teamwork, and clients love the flexibility!
The part about their own irrigation system intrigues me. Does it sing to the plants? I’d like to think that law offices now double as botanical gardens.