At Debevoise, the firm values the expertise, skills, knowledge and relationships lateral associates can bring to the firm.

The firm places particular emphasis on recruiting individuals who will make a significant contribution to Debevoise and thrive in the firm’s culture. In addition to excellent academics, the firm looks for the ability to think creatively, listen actively and demonstrate maturity and leadership.

Key practice areas for Debevoise in London include corporate (including antitrust, M&A, capital markets, insurance / FIG, investment management and private equity), litigation (including arbitration, commercial litigation, white collar crime and regulatory defence, and public international law), and tax.

If you are interested in applying for any current vacancy, please forward a covering letter and comprehensive CV for the attention of the HR department.

"I joined Debevoise in April 2014, following 10 years in the Corporate department at a Magic Circle firm in London.

I decided to move to Debevoise for a number of reasons. First of all, the quality of the work is outstanding. Almost all the work I am involved in is cutting edge and cross-border, and much of it has a public markets side and is accordingly high profile. The London office has an impressive and varied client roster, and this is supported by the strength of the Debevoise brand and its international footprint. I regularly work hand in hand with colleagues in our other offices, in particular New York and Moscow, providing the seamless international service which our clients demand of their legal advisers when it comes to their most important instructions.

Secondly, the people you work with are very important, and Debevoise is a fantastic place to be in that respect. The teams here are very collegiate and dynamic, fostering a welcoming and enjoyable environment. Allied to that, there is a strong emphasis on outstanding legal and academic achievement, meaning I get to work with exceptional colleagues from whom I am constantly learning and improving my own legal skills.

Thirdly, the significance of the London office within the Debevoise network was important to me. The London office is the largest outside New York and, having recently moved to new premises, is continuing to expand. This commitment to London as a key part of the firm’s global offering demonstrates to me the opportunities that are available for those of us here in London."

—Tom Matthews, Corporate Associate

What is Debevoise’s strategy for growth over the next few years?
Debevoise is committed to the London market, and has continued to grow its presence here in recent years. Today, the firm has around 100 lawyers in London, who work as part of an integrated global team. In the coming years, Debevoise will continue to focus growth in the areas in which it has built a market leading reputation in London.

What are the required chargeable hours for associates?
To support the firm’s collegial culture, it does not have fixed chargeable hours required for associates. However, associates should aim to achieve approximately 2,000 hours per year including pro bono work.

Does the firm offer client secondment opportunities or placements to the other international offices?
Associates regularly work on cross jurisdictional matters and have the opportunity to visit and work in Debevoise’s offices around the globe. Associates often also get the opportunity to undertake client secondments.

Will I be able to get involved in pro bono work?
Yes. Debevoise is one of London’s most active firms when it comes to pro bono activity. Debevoise lawyers have undertaken thousands of pro bono representations over the years and many of them serve as board members or directors in over 100 community related and professional organisations.

Is business development encouraged by the partners?
Yes. Debevoise has dedicated teams and initiatives targeting growth in a number of specific areas. All lawyers at the firm are encouraged to take active roles in these teams and initiatives.

How will I be supported in my professional development? Does the firm offer internal / external training opportunities?
Debevoise offers a comprehensive programme of CLE as well as in-house training sessions throughout your career. In addition, the associate mentor programme matches all associates with a senior lawyer or partner as a mentor who takes the time to guide, advise, listen and understand their mentees particular development needs, experiences and concerns.

When does the lawyer salary review and bonus process take place and would I be eligible if I were to join the firm mid-year?
Debevoise is a lockstep firm and salaries are reviewed in January of each year. In addition, it operates a discretionary bonus scheme. The amount, if paid, is generally determined in December each year. For associates who join the firm part way through the year, the bonus is paid on a pro-rata basis.

Would you consider applications from barrister candidates?
Yes. The firm currently has a number of barristers currently working in the London office, including Lord Goldsmith QC.

I require visa sponsorship to work in the UK. Is this something the firm would consider if I were successful in my application?
Yes, but any offer will depend on the firm successfully obtaining a work permit for you or on you providing all of the information and documentation required (e.g. proof of academic and professional qualifications, current CV and valid passport). Please note that the firm cannot be held responsible for any restrictions imposed by the UK Border Agency.

What is the role of international counsel?
The firm is an all equity partnership. As such, international counsel at Debevoise are akin to what other firms may term non-equity or salaried partners. International counsel at Debevoise represent the next generation of leadership, and is sometimes a stepping stone to partnership.

What is the expected partnership track at Debevoise, i.e. at what PQE level would I potentially be considered for promotion to partner?
The firm is committed to helping and supporting its most talented lawyers achieve partnership. The earliest point at which an associate can be considered is in their eighth year.