Pros
My time at Cole & Van Note was challenging in ways that ultimately helped me grow as an attorney. The firm offers higher-than-average compensation, and the workload and expectations pushed me to develop sharper skills and a stronger foundation for the next stage of my career. Specifically, I developed valuable insights in negotiation, strategy, case momentum, and the importance of documenting communications effectively. The environment is fast-paced and high-intensity, and success here depends in large part on how well you adapt to and anticipate the working style of those you support in the office, something that’s true in many legal settings, but especially here. Overall, I’m grateful for the lessons I learned at CVN. This role may be a great fit for someone who thrives under pressure, enjoys managing multiple moving parts and is looking to sharpen their litigation instincts in a hands-on environment.
Cons
The work environment can be non-linear and at times hands-on and reactive. Things move quickly, priorities shift often, and expectations can feel unspoken but very real. That said, this is not out of step with the nature of litigation, it’s just concentrated here. The leadership style is intense and direct. This is not the place for someone who needs constant validation or prefers a gentle tone. However, if you're opinionated, assertive, and willing to advocate for yourself the way you would advocate for a client, you may find the experience deeply formative. This is not a “paper-pushing” associate job. It’s hands-on, high-stakes, and often confrontational, internally and externally. But, let’s be honest, that’s the nature of the law. Litigation is adversarial by design. If you’re someone who doesn’t shy away from that, who finds purpose in the friction and clarity in the pressure, this may be exactly the kind of environment that shapes you. For others, it may be worth asking whether that’s the challenge you’re actually looking for.