Researching Employers
No matter the legal sector or the size of the legal employer, researching employers is key! It is important that you identify and research employers in which you are interested. To find information on specific employers, you can use these resources:
- The “4 or More List,” which is a list of firms in Chicago with four or more attorneys (accessible through Symplicity)
- The NALP Directory (www.nalpdirectory.com)
- The Government Honors & Internship Handbook and the Public Policy Handbook published by the University of Arizona College of Law (accessible through Symplicity).
- Martindale Hubbell (for attorney-specific information) can be very helpful (accessible through LexisNexis or www.martindale.com).
Most mid-sized firms will not be listed in the NALP Directory; therefore, check the firms’ websites and, if necessary, call the firms to determine their hiring timelines and criteria. Martindale-Hubbell, bar directories, Lexis, and Westlaw are good sources to help find lists of mid-sized firms in different cities.
It is very important to pay attention to details as you go through the OCI process, as well as researching employers carefully before you submit your materials to them. It is recommended that you target selected employers based on the skills and experience you provide, geographical preference, and practice area.