Given the nature of our practice and, in particular, the absence of repetitive, standardized transactions and matters, we train associates to be complete, well-rounded lawyers as opposed to specialists in subparts of particular transactions or matters; in short, we try to develop in each of our associates the skills necessary to become a partner in our firm.

Our relatively small size and unusual partner-to-associate ratio also give each associate the opportunity to work directly with partners in an informal and non-structured atmosphere that encourages hands-on training and the development of close working relationships among lawyers of the firm and with clients.

In view of our size and structure, our associates are all offered the opportunity to take on meaningful responsibilities very early on in their careers and thus quickly allows them to become highly valued members of small teams working directly with clients; as a result, competition or "one-upmanship" among associates has never been a problem — a true team spirit prevails.

We prize independent thinking and creativity in our associates; our relatively small size and unusual structure are designed to create an engaging, high-energy atmosphere in which those traits will develop and flourish.

We are committed to providing our attorneys with the necessary support and technology to allow for the practice of law at the highest and most responsive level. Our computers and systems infrastructure and support are at the forefront of the law-firm universe. In addition to the systems in place in the office, we provide each attorney with a laptop, cell phone and PDA. We also provide a broadband connection in each attorney's home to allow connection to the office, and support remote access — not only from home, but on a worldwide basis — to all of the information resources of the firm, including all e-mail and faxes.