Warner/WNJ (A Culture of Discrimination and Hostility) - Attorney Warner/WNJ Employee Review

1.0
14 June 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Everything that was wonderful here left years ago!

Cons

I am writing this review to shed light on the disturbing practices at Warner/WNJ, which has fostered an environment rife with racism, sexism, and numerous violations of human rights. Despite the company's public claims of being inclusive and supportive of all people, my experience over the years has been starkly different, and I want to make others aware. There is a community of employees at Warner/WNJ who are scared to speak up in fear of losing our job, but enough is enough! Racism and Sexism The executive director, management, professional development, and HR staff at Warner/WNJ not only tolerate but promote racist and sexist behaviors. There have been multiple instances where decisions and actions were clearly influenced by racial and gender biases, creating a toxic work environment for employees who are not part of the preferred demographic. Violation of Human Rights and DEI Principles The company's practices are in blatant violation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles and the Mansfield Rule, which they falsely claim to uphold. Instead of fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, Warner/WNJ systematically undermines these efforts through discriminatory practices. Hostility and Retaliation When employees, including myself, have raised concerns or complaints about these issues, the response from management has been anything but supportive. I have personally faced harassment, intimidation, and threats as a result of speaking up. The culture of retaliation is deeply ingrained, making it incredibly difficult for employees to address grievances without fear of retribution, demotion, and termination. Many employees terminated over the last 18 months were terminated as retaliation for speaking up on the discrimination, harassment, or other hostile behavior at Warner/WNJ Grand Rapids, and Detroit locations. Warner/WNJ promotes a hostile work environment that allows discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. The executive director, professional development, and the HR staff are allowed to use offensive racial remarks, slurs, and jokes. The executive director, along with some of management even give unwanted sexual advances. Conclusion Warner/WNJ is failing its employees by perpetuating a hostile work environment that is neither safe nor inclusive. Their public statements about supporting diversity and equality, in addition to sponsoring events gathered around this mission are misleading and do not reflect the reality of working there. It is crucial for potential employees to be aware of these issues!

Explore other reviews about Warner/WNJ

5.0
15 Feb 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

THE PEOPLE, diversity of work, chances to grow

Cons

None that come to mind.

3.0
24 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

So many of the people I worked with were great and I formed many friendships while at Warner. They have occasional events that are fun and serve as nice perks for everyone. Good benefits (retirement matching, health insurance, profit sharing, etc.) although base pay could be better. Positive reputation in Michigan as far as law firms go.

Cons

I think there are a lot of things about Warner’s culture that are a bit toxic. Management seems to value the attorneys’ opinions and perspectives much more than those of the staff (yes, the attorneys are the billers but the gap between how the two groups are treated is palpable). I have seen and experienced many people on the staff side being taken advantage of, with more and more work piled on their plates without any additional compensation. Oftentimes it feels like you don’t really have a choice in the matter and the pace at which you’re expected to go is unsustainable (most tasks at Warner are treated as though they are emergencies — in marketing, there is no such thing). There are many kind attorneys but just as many who treat staff members with disrespect, a lack of appreciation, and a complete disregard for how their own actions and poor communication may be making it harder for staff to do their jobs.

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