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I'm having a very tough time deciding between Sidley Austin and Winston and Strawn. I really like the people at both firms, and although Winston got some tough internet ratings a few years ago about some cultural things and the no offer summer, it seems that they were very careful to respond and alter their firm in light of these critiques. I was really impressed by everyone I met there, as well as the people I met at Sidley too.

I want to go into litigation and both of these firms have great reputations. I'm a public interest-minded person and don't plan to stay at a firm for very long. I want to work at a firm with a good work-life balance (or at least as good as it could possibly get in big law). My ultimate goal is to work for the federal government. Do you think that Sidley or Winston is a better choice with that goal in mind?

Sidley, no question.

Why is it no question? I know that Sidley is ranked higher than Winston, but they're both top firms in Chicago and are great for litigation. I'm not sure if rank makes it easier to get into federal government work or are we presuming Sidley has better government connections?

if it was me: S.I.D.L.E.Y 110%

I would go Sidley as well. much better rep outside of Chicago and exit ops will be better.

This isn't close.

what kind of federal government work do you want to do?

Sidley for Corporate, Winston for Litigation.

If you want to work in the US Atty's office or SEC, Winston is actually the better choice. Especially in Chicago, it is just a revolving door between Winston litigation and SEC/US Atty's office. Anything else, go with Sidley

This is idiotic. It's Sidley and isn't even remotely close.

Winston has world class Lit Department.