Smith, Gambrell & Russell LLP

Hiring Criteria

Smith Gambrell seeks to hire students in the top 25% of their class, "with law review or moot court experience and a strong work history and good people skills." On-campus interviews are usually conducted by two attorneys, frequently 1 partner and an associate who work in different practice groups. The firm has a somewhat unique callback interview, which is conducted on one of two designated weekends. The interview process begins with a cocktail party on a Friday evening, at which "almost all the firm shows up" to meet the candidates. Following the party, each applicant is taken out to dinner by two partners or a partner and an associate. The interviews take place the following day. One applicant complained that because it is a weekend day, "you don't get a sense of the firm." Another noted, however, that "the attorneys are not bustling around with work. They are there for you." The interviews are generally "informal and low key," and although there may be some substantive legal questions, the firm generally attempts to see if the candidate is outgoing and personable during the interviews. "The firm looks for people who can work well with other lawyers and can interact well with clients," we were told. One source advised candidates to "be friendly and outgoing, show your personality and don't be arrogant.'' Another insider recommended: "Be interesting and engaging in the interview. Ask about when the interviewer last had client contact and when the interviewer last took a vacation. Those are good examples of the type of firm in which the interviewer works."