DPW vs Cleary (NY) Forum

[Anonymous User]

Interested in corporate (M&A/Cap Markets) work and deciding between these two firms. While I enjoyed meeting with the people at each enough that I could see myself at either, I did feel more comfortable/a better "fit" at Cleary. So, my question is: career-wise, is there any reason to believe that DPW might provide better exit options or open any doors that Cleary won't? Will the quality or amount of work be any different?

As far as exit goals: I'm not exactly sure whether I'll still want to be at a biglaw firm in five years, but I'd like to know if there's any difference in a long-term career at either of these firms, the exit options to clients' legal departments, and whether either would make a difference for lateralling to a smaller market where neither of these is present.

[Anonymous User]

OP here, anyone that voted care to explain their votes? Is DPW just the outright better career move?

[Anonymous User]

Similar situation as OP. Would love to hear reasons for voting.

[deepseapartners]

I would have voted DPW if you were dead set on cap markets, but you will likely not be around long enough for that distinction to make a difference. Go where you feel like the firm was a better fit, you'll be spending way too much time with your coworkers.

[Anonymous User]

If you really like the people better at Cleary, I don't think the potential difference in exits X number of years down the line (if any) should be material enough to change your choice.