Winston only accepts applications submitted via our online self-apply system rather than by email or hard copy. Duplicate applications to attorneys or recruiting contacts (by email or hard copy) are discouraged. Visit the Search Available Positions section for more information and to view and apply for available opportunities at the firm.

The interview process may involve multiple rounds of meetings, which could include a combination of phone screenings, virtual interviews, and/or in-person interviews with attorneys from all levels of seniority. The initial interview is typically with one or two partners from a specific practice group followed by a second round of interviews with four or more attorneys, including a mixture of partners and associates.

Candidates who have degrees in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, biology, chemistry, and life sciences who are interested in becoming a practicing IP attorney are encouraged to submit their resume for consideration.

In response to associate feedback, Winston developed and implemented an improved Path to Partner process that has more structure, communication, and participative elements. Associates are first eligible for election to partner in their eighth year of practice, and decisions are made based on a clear set of criteria outlining performance expectations and business needs.

Our comprehensive Welcome to Winston lateral attorney integration program combines general orientation and IT training with targeted introductions to key firm contacts and includes content on diversity and inclusion, Corporate Social Responsibility, and social media training. Lateral associates in their first year at the firm also participate in our formal Mentoring Program.

Under our Winston University model, we provide an extensive selection of legal and professional skills, business development, and practice management skills training programs. Our integrated professional development team provides attorneys at every level with cutting-edge programs, optional coaching services to assist with career planning, and tailored learning curricula. Our holistic approach ensures our attorneys have the resources for peak performance. Visit our Professional Development page for more details.

All attorneys at Winston have access to one-on-one coaching to help them achieve peak personal and professional performance. Winston’s Director of Coaching and Well-Being works with attorneys on a case-by-case basis to help them develop personalized career plans, expand their business skills, and develop greater emotional and physical resilience.

The firm has a democratically elected Associates Committee empowered by firm management to provide honest and candid feedback. Recommendations from the committee have resulted in enhancements to technology resources, the evaluation process, training and mentoring, and other firm programs. The committee includes attorneys from domestic and international offices, as well as a partner liaison who acts as a formal resource and sounding board.

Achieving greater diversity and inclusion in our workforce is one of the key components in Winston’s firmwide strategic plan. Our efforts to enhance the firm’s diversity and inclusion programs, performance, and profile diversity efforts are guided by a global Diversity & Inclusion Committee that includes attorneys and professional staff at the highest levels of the firm. Visit the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion page for more details.

Winston’s commitment to pro bono is reflected in the firm’s policies regarding credit for pro bono hours. Associates may apply 100 pro bono hours toward their 2,000-hours minimum requirement for bonus eligibility and are eligible to receive unlimited credit for pro bono hours after reaching a minimum of 1,900 billable hours. Visit our Pro Bono page for more details.

Winston offers an array of programs to help our attorneys balance and integrate their personal and professional lives, ranging from Reduced Hours Schedules and 20 weeks of gender-neutral parental leave, regardless of caregiver status. Visit our Attorney Work-Life Integration page for more details.