Braumiller Law Group, PLLC

I would stay focused on the bigger picture, and the growth that the firm has achieved through the years, and not take it personally when someone leaves. Everybody has their own career path and plan on how to achieve their goals. Look instead at where those who have left are at this time, and take credit where it is due regarding their level of success. It's just business, be proud of the education that has been provided.

I have been an outside contractor for this law firm since 2002, so I have seen first hand how they have evolved into a very well respected boutique firm. The Partners (2) who have left over the years have gone on to be very successful on their own. Some junior attorneys who have left have gone on to see what it's like to work for a large D.C. firm (a few have actually returned within a year or two), while others are now overseeing in-house counsel for Fortune 500 companies. Note: The Attorneys at the firm are constantly being approached by large D.C. firms. It's a great place for an attorney to be involved on a variety of cases, which keeps things interesting to say the least. In addition to grooming the firms attorneys for success, I have also witnessed the Founder of the firm being instrumental in assisting others outside the firm (Trade Advisor's and Attorneys) in career advancement. In conclusion, I guess I'd have to say the atmosphere there is vibrant, and ever evolving with their expertise in international trade. The pay at this firm is very competitive, and the turnover very low.

When weighing the cons of the firm, I think it's fair to point out that this is a boutique firm, (no 100+ attorneys) so the opportunity for advancement to Partner is much more challenging, and takes more time, which may not sit well with the overly ambitious newer Attorneys after a few years of service. One has to learn quickly here how to dig in and produce sometimes with less supervision than they are used to. It's fast paced, so it's not the right fit for those who need a lot of supervision. You have to be able to think, and problem solve independently here, because often the overall team is busy.

There is only one Partner/Founder at this firm, who is instrumental in delegating the flow of work to the attorneys and network of trade advisors.

I would have to say that the one thing I have observed about this firm that stands out to me is the favorable work/life balance I have seen. It's more like family than a firm, and the boss actually does care about the staff. Some attorneys have been with this firm for over 20 years, which is not the norm for a boutique. I have witnessed the turnover with the larger firms, and that just appears to be the typical nose to the grind stone 12-14 hour days, for as long as one can tolerate just working for the firm. Burnout is the usual conclusion.

Create more opportunities to grow. Provide adequate pay and benefits. Try to make the environment more uplifting.

There is a spirit of innovation and creativity at this firm. The lawyers are very professional and are some of the best. The work and life balance is pretty acceptable. This is a good environment for newcomers.

It's not a place to build a career from. The compensation is not equal to the work you do. The environment can feel depressing at times.