Not Surprised - Anonymous employee Cole & Van Note Employee Review

I don't usually write reviews but felt compelled to do so when I read a recent one-star review that was so different from my experience, it seems suspect. I am a previous employee and can say that this firm is fast paced, and the employees are both brilliant and easy to get along with. I have not had another experience where I was surrounded by so many great people. The partners and the employees at this firm are at the top 1%, smart, ambitious and organized. The work is extremely interesting/complex; firm is diverse; partners seem to genuinely are about your development as an employee and promotions are possible when you excel. I found compensation is highly competitive.

If you want to do your job and be left alone, this is not the place for you. If you are uncomfortable working in a team environment you may not excel here. If you are unwilling to learn, you do not want to work here.

Nice office space and building.

Toxic Leadership: The managing partner runs this firm like a monarchy. He is a bully who curses at employees and belittles them, specially targeting women. He yells and will speak to you like you’re a child. He hires young employees and takes advantage of their inexperience. Lack of Clear Communication: Employees are expected to anticipate needs and read minds due to vague and unclear instructions. Closed Door Policy: The managing partner keeps his office door closed which creates an unapproachable atmosphere. If you walk into his office without knocking or calling him first, you will get yelled at. High Stress and Burnout: Employees are overworked with unreasonable expectations. I wasn’t an attorney and found myself working 60-hour weeks. I tried to sit down with both Laura and Scott, but nothing changed. I had no weekends. Employees leave that place with serious mental health issues. I developed serious mental health issues from this place and couldn’t work for a few months due to the trauma. Unhealthy Competition: The work environment fosters distrust and competition among colleagues. The managing partner pits employees against each other. In sum, the managing partner at this firm creates a toxic work environment that significantly contributes to mental health issues among employees. His abusive behavior and lack of support have surely caused undue stress and trauma on many of his former employees, warranting serious consideration of legal action against him.