At Blank Rome, we are committed to supporting the growth and advancement of our attorneys through a comprehensive framework of training, coaching, and mentoring.
To ensure we meet the needs of our associates, we offer a wide range of programs and opportunities tailored to align with practice group priorities, firm goals, and our associate High-Performance Culture (“HPC”) Competencies.
Our associate curriculum includes, but is not limited to:
Orientation
There is a Professional Development overview during the associate’s first week, followed by a check-in during their first month at the firm.
Each new associate also participates in our annual New Associate Academy, a robust hybrid program held each fall that equips incoming associates with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed at Blank Rome. The program includes several days of in-person training to foster camaraderie and lasting professional relationships.
Legal Skills Training
Many of our practice groups offer targeted, substantive legal training specific to their area of focus. Below is a sampling of the interactive programs offered to associates in each department:
Litigation:
- Trial Academy: In partnership with the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (“NITA”), we offer a rigorous in-house trial advocacy program for senior associates. This signature program is a critical component for maintaining a bench of high-caliber trial attorneys. The program begins with virtual training and culminates in live mock trials held at the Criminal Justice Center in Philadelphia.
- Trial Accelerator: Designed for junior and mid-level associates, this program focuses on litigation fundamentals such as motions, evidence, and deposition skills in preparation for Trial Academy.
Business:
- Contract Drafting: Our comprehensive contract drafting programs are designed to equip transactional associates with the essential skills required to excel in their field.
- Negotiation Skills: Senior transactional associates hone their negotiation skills through interactive exercises that provide real-time feedback and foster confidence needed to excel in high-stakes dealmaking.
- Financial and Accounting Training: Delving into critical accounting and financial topics, our programs feature dynamic, attorney-focused programs led by distinguished external experts.
Professional Development Curriculum
Our Professional Development Team curates an annual series of programs driven by attorney feedback. Topics include legal writing, business development, business of law, presentation skills, leadership training, and more.
Coaching
Associates may schedule one-on-one virtual coaching sessions at their convenience, tailored to support their individual growth.
Mentoring
Each associate is paired with a Career Development Advisor (“CDA”) to help ensure they receive meaningful work experiences and career guidance. In addition, all new hires are paired with an Integration Liaison during their first few months to help navigate firm resources, build internal connections, and support a smooth transition into their new role.
We are proud to foster a culture of continuous learning and are committed to delivering innovative professional development opportunities that support every attorney’s career journey at Blank Rome.