Associates are drawn to Morris James because of the firm's environment of mutual respect, which promotes mentoring, and skill development. The size of the firm is also advantageous to new attorneys who want the opportunity to take on significant responsibility at an early stage. Fewer attorneys means more opportunities to work on interesting, challenging, sophisticated issues, and more opportunities to learn by doing.
Morris James looks for academically strong third year law student candidates - those in the top third of their class - who are flexible in their practice of law and seek to understand and achieve client goals. Our attorneys also value the following qualities:
- Clear thinking
- Creative and efficient problem-solving
- Plain speaking
- Persuasive writing
- Adherence to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism
Mentoring Program
Morris James has a very active mentoring program. Associates are assigned a mentor who works outside of the associate's practice group, and a senior link associate who works within their practice group, to assist the associate in their first year of transition/orientation to the firm. Mentors meet regularly with associates to discuss, among other topics:
- Work load
- Firm culture
- Job satisfaction
- Conflict resolution
- Relationships with partners, associates and support staff
- Productivity, including how to properly enter time and review time sheets to assure the associate is on track to meet expectations
- Career development
Senior link associates are a terrific resource for new associates. With over four or more years of experience at Morris James, they can introduce a first year associate to the firm culture, assist with questions about technology and timekeeping, and incorporate new associates into the various service and social events.
Pro Bono Opportunities
The attorneys of Morris James engage in many professional activities, which extend beyond the private practice of law. Attorneys and staff volunteer their time with a broad array of civic and social service organizations, youth organizations, senior citizen organizations, colleges, universities and law schools, and the arts community.
The firm’s culture encourages attorneys to lecture, publish and engage in pro bono work in the community. Our attorneys spend thousands of hours working with The Office of the Child Advocate, Delaware, serving as Guardian ad litem on behalf of abused and neglected children. They also serve on the boards of numerous diverse organizations, frequently assuming leadership responsibilities.
Benefits
Morris James LLP is committed to offering salaries competitive with other major law firms in the region. The Firm also provides excellent benefits, including paid vacations, a 401(k) plan, a cafeteria plan, group life and disability insurance, long-term care insurance, extensive health benefits, and dependent care benefits.