No training and lack of communication - Legal Assistant/Paralegal K&L Gates Employee Review

1.0
Feb 16, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Most coworkers were pleasant. The firm is clean.

Cons

From day one I was put into an office with no real direction or training. The only real communication is via emails, even if they are coming from the office next to you. It left a lot of room for misunderstandings and left more questions for entry level people. They give you 15 minute crash courses on software your first week via phone conferencing (there are several) then randomly ask you to recall everything without having had access to them once assignments come in. There is a huge disconnect with what everyone does, what people should know, expectations, etc. It took a while to even understand the chain of command. If there were mistakes made early on, I was told weeks later and they wouldn’t tell me what the issues were so I could prevent the same mistakes. I received mixed messages daily. I would be talked down to but then praised in the same conversation (when you actually were able to talk to your team). It made no sense and I never knew where I stood. The culture is cold and stark, with a very dead silence throughout the firm and little personal interaction. It is probably not a surprise that the firm hired a professional to train the entire firm on how to treat people. That is due to take place in a few weeks.

Explore other reviews about K&L Gates

5.0
Jul 7, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Benefits Work environment PTO Plan

Cons

Accrual of time Mostly in office

4.0
Jul 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

My experience with my team was outstanding, and I genuinely enjoyed the work I performed during my time at the firm. The role was exactly as it had been presented during the interview process, The environment was supportive. My colleagues were always willing to help, share knowledge, and step in when needed. One aspect I particularly appreciated was the team's commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I could take PTO with confidence, knowing that I would not return to an unmanageable backlog of work. Additionally, the firm's benefits package was among the most comprehensive and competitive I have encountered in my career. The PTO amount was awesome too.

Cons

As of early 2026, the firm had announced the strategic priority of automating administrative functions with AI chatbots, including my scope of work. Ultimately, I chose to leave due to both the handling of this announcement as well as the growing concern that my role would be replaced by AI.

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