Firm News

Snell & Wilmer Ranks #10 Nationally for Midlevel Associate Satisfaction in 2026 American Lawyer Survey; Also Ranks #8 Nationally for Associate Technology

Sep 08, 2026

PHOENIX – Snell & Wilmer is pleased to announce that the firm ranked #10 overall nationally in The American Lawyer’s 2026 Midlevel Associates Survey, which measures job satisfaction among third-, fourth-, and fifth-year associates at the nation’s leading law firms. The firm also jumped up to rank #8 nationally in The American Lawyer’s 2026 Associate Technology Survey.

The American Lawyer’s Midlevel Associates Survey examines multiple aspects of job satisfaction, including compensation and benefits; training and guidance; relationships with partners and other associates; interest in and satisfaction level with the work; the firm’s policy on billable hours; and management’s openness about firm strategies and partnership chances. Midlevel associates graded their workplaces in these categories on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest score. The firm’s overall respondent percentage rate was 84%, higher than any other firm surveyed, reflecting the deep engagement of the firm’s associate population.

“This recognition reflects the culture we have built at Snell & Wilmer – one grounded in mutual respect, meaningful work, and a genuine commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in the legal profession,” said Firm Chair Barbara Dawson. “Ranking in the top 10 nationally is a testament to the dedication of our partners and leadership team in creating an environment where associates can thrive both professionally and personally.”

Chief Talent Officer Aubyn Krulish added, “At Snell & Wilmer, we are fortunate to have talented, dedicated, and driven associates whose commitment to excellence — both in their client work and in helping shape the culture of this firm — is something we deeply value. The fact that 84% of our eligible midlevel associates participated in the survey, the highest response rate of any firm, is a testament to who they are: professionals who care about their careers, their colleagues, and the future of this firm. Their willingness to share feedback and invest their time in making Snell & Wilmer better is a gift to the firm’s leadership. We are committed to honoring that investment by continuing to listen, to act on what we hear, and to build an associate experience that supports their professional development, their well-being, and their long-term success across all of our offices.”

According to The American Lawyer, “Technology remains a critical component of the associate experience, influencing productivity, collaboration, and the ability to work effectively in both office and remote environments. This scorecard highlights how midlevel associates rate their firms’ technology capabilities and identifies the organizations leading in technology investment, support, and training.”

“Our rise to #8 nationally in the Associate Technology Survey demonstrates the firm’s ongoing investment in tools and resources that empower our attorneys to deliver exceptional client service,” said Attorney Development Committee (ADC) Co-Chair Jeff Scudder. “At Snell & Wilmer, we understand that technology is integral to the modern practice of law, and we are committed to ensuring our associates have access to the platforms, training, and support they need to succeed.”

About Snell & Wilmer

Founded in 1938, Snell & Wilmer is a full-service business law firm with more than 500 attorneys practicing in 17 locations throughout the United States and in Mexico, including Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona; Los Angeles, Orange County, Palo Alto and San Diego, California; Denver, Colorado; Washington, D.C.; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno-Tahoe, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Portland, Oregon; Dallas, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah; Seattle, Washington; and Los Cabos, Mexico. The firm represents clients ranging from large, publicly traded corporations to small businesses, individuals and entrepreneurs. For more information, visit swlaw.com.

Media Contact

Olivia Nguyen-Quang

Director of Communications & Marketing
media@swlaw.com 714.427.7490