Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the firm's minimum billable hour requirement for associates?

We don't have a billable hour quota or requirement, nor do we publish or review billable hours totals for our lawyers. We want our lawyers to focus on solving problems and completing projects, not on accumulating "hours".

2. What type of lawyers do you hire?

We seek bright, well-rounded, independent people willing to work with other people in a mutually supportive manner.

3. Are new associates assigned directly to a practice area?

We want our new associates to work on projects in each of the four major areas of the firm's practice (corporate, litigation, real estate and tax/trusts and estates). We believe this broad training produces better lawyers and better firm members. Typically, associates become members of one of our departments after one year to eighteen months. The process of joining a department includes an evaluation of the associate's areas of specialization and preference as well as the needs of the firm.

4. What are salaries for new lawyers?

Our base compensation for new associates is currently $130,000. We also pay moving expenses up to $2,000, bar preparation course expenses and all bar registration fees. Those who come to us following a judicial clerkship are paid an additional $5,000 within 90 days of their start date. Please see our lawyer benefits section for more information.

5. Does the firm have mentors for its new associates?

Yes, each new associate has a mentor during the first year.

6. Does the firm allow part-time or flexible work arrangements?

Yes, we have both partners and associates who work under part-time or reduced-workload arrangements. These arrangements are all individually designed. We don't take a rigid approach as to specific part-time policies because one size does not fit all.

7. Does the firm hire laterals?

Yes, we're always looking to hire outstanding candidates as laterals.

8. Why Charlotte?

Charlotte is the largest city in the Carolinas and the second-largest banking center in the nation. Charlotte offers many amenities including beautiful, affordable neighborhoods, major league professional sports teams (the Carolina Panthers and the Charlotte Bobcats), a wide variety of cultural opportunities, and easy access to the mountains and coasts of both Carolinas. For more information on the city, please investigate the Charlotte Chamber Web site.

9. How many summer associates do you plan to hire?

We do not make rigid plans about the number of summer associates we will hire each year, and we expect to accommodate each applicant who meets our hiring criteria and is genuinely interested in a legal career in Charlotte. We want to make sure, however, that we do not hire more summer associates than we can assimilate effectively and provide with a meaningful experience during the summer with our firm.

10. What are salaries for summer associates?

Our second-year summer associates received $2100 per week and our first-year summer associates received $1900 per week for the 2007 summer. We also pay for downtown parking and 30% of rent.

11. Are summer associates allowed to split the summer between Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson and another firm? Is there a minimum time requirement?

Yes, summer associates are allowed to split the summer. We prefer that you spend the first half of the summer with us, and we require six weeks as a minimum (four weeks if returning for a second summer).

12. What type of work is given to summer associates?

The work experience of a summer associate is similar in diversity and responsibility to that of a new associate. The summer program affords a broad exposure to and participation in our practice (including our pro bono activities), as well as significant interaction with clients and other lawyers on challenging matters. Summer associates are also encouraged to participate in practice area meetings and training lunches held throughout the summer. These meetings offer an informal setting in which summer associates can become better acquainted with our practice and our lawyers.

13. Are there social events during the summer?

Absolutely. The summer is full of a variety of social activities. We want you to get to know us on a more personal level, and plan many activities to encourage this.

14. How do I find summer housing?

We're glad to arrange your summer housing for you. We have relationships with several apartment complexes near downtown that provide fully furnished, fully equipped one- and two-bedroom apartments. All you need to do is show up and we'll take care of the rest for you.

15. How do I apply?

We consider candidates we meet in our on-campus interviews and students whose resumes we receive through the mail. To start your application process, go to our campus recruiting calendar to see if we'll be conducting interviews at your school. If your school isn't listed, please contact us so we can ensure your consideration.