Introduction to Burr & Forman LLP

Burr & Forman LLP stands as one of the most respected law firms in the southeastern United States, with a rich history dating back to 1905. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, the firm has grown to encompass over 300 attorneys across 12 offices in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Delaware. The firm’s core practice areas include commercial litigation, corporate law, banking and finance, real estate, healthcare, and intellectual property. Burr & Forman LLP has earned a reputation for providing sophisticated legal counsel to Fortune 500 companies, regional banks, healthcare systems, and emerging businesses. The firm is consistently ranked by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers, reflecting its market leadership. Clients choose Burr & Forman for its deep industry knowledge, client service ethos, and ability to deliver results in high-stakes disputes. As a full-service law firm, Burr & Forman LLP leverages a collaborative culture that fosters professional growth and innovation in legal service delivery.

The firm’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is evident through its active affinity groups and community partnerships. Burr & Forman LLP invests heavily in legal technology, including AI-powered document review and e-discovery tools, enabling attorneys to work efficiently. This profile provides an exhaustive look at the firm’s history, culture, career opportunities, and industry standing.

Company History and Business Evolution

Burr & Forman LLP traces its roots to 1905 when two attorneys in Birmingham, Alabama, formed a partnership to serve the legal needs of a growing industrial city. Over the decades, the firm expanded organically and through mergers, adding offices in Mobile (1930s), Montgomery (1960s), and later Atlanta, Orlando, and Nashville. A significant milestone occurred in 1988 with the merger with Forman & Forman, solidifying the Burr & Forman name. The firm weathered the Great Depression, civil rights era, and economic recessions by adapting its practice to meet client needs. In the 1990s, the firm established its healthcare practice, becoming a go-to advisor for hospitals and medical groups. The 2000s saw the launch of a dedicated intellectual property group and expansion into energy and environmental law. By 2020, Burr & Forman LLP had grown to over 300 attorneys and was recognized as a top workplace by the Birmingham Business Journal. The firm continues to embrace change, launching a virtual law division during the pandemic and investing in data analytics for litigation strategy.

Today, Burr & Forman LLP operates with a flat hierarchy that encourages attorney collaboration across offices. The firm’s history of stability and strategic growth makes it an attractive employer for legal talent seeking long-term career paths.

Burr & Forman LLP at a Glance

• Headquarters: Birmingham, Alabama, United States
• Founded: 1905
• Managing Partner: David B. Byrne Jr. (as of 2025)
• Number of Attorneys: Over 300
• Total Employees: Approximately 600 (including staff)
• Offices: 12 in the southeastern U.S.
• Revenue: Estimated $150 million (2024)
• Practice Areas: Litigation, Corporate, Banking, Real Estate, Healthcare, IP, Labor & Employment, Tax
• Awards: Chambers USA Band 1, Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, Vault Top 100 Law Firms for Diversity
• Industry Focus: Financial Services, Healthcare, Energy, Technology, Manufacturing
• Client Base: Fortune 500, mid-market companies, nonprofit organizations
• Pro Bono: 50+ hours per attorney annually
• DEI Initiatives: Women’s Initiative, Minority Attorney Network, LGBTQ+ & Allies Group
• Technology: Microsoft 365, iManage, Relativity, Kira Systems
• Workplace Recognition: Best Place to Work by Alabama Law Review, 2022
• Summer Associate Program: 10-week program with 90% offer rate
• Partnership Track: Typically 7-9 years for associates
• Billable Hours Target: 1,950 per year (with bonus thresholds)
• Hybrid Work: 3 days in-office, 2 remote
• Bar Required: Alabama State Bar (or ability to waive)

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Burr & Forman LLP’s mission is to deliver exceptional legal solutions that advance client interests while maintaining the highest ethical standards. The firm envisions being the premier regional law firm recognized for excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Core values include integrity, collaboration, client focus, excellence, and community service. These values are embedded in performance evaluations, hiring decisions, and pro bono commitments. The firm regularly surveys employees to ensure alignment with these principles and publishes an annual diversity report.

Every attorney and staff member is expected to embody these values. For example, the firm’s “Client First” initiative provides training on active listening and business acumen. Collaboration is encouraged through cross-practice teams that work on complex transactions. The firm also supports volunteer activities through its “Burr & Forman Gives Back” program, donating over 4,000 hours annually to legal aid clinics and nonprofits.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Burr & Forman LLP’s strategy focuses on deepening existing client relationships while expanding into adjacent markets. Key initiatives include: (1) investing in legal technology to improve efficiency, (2) recruiting lateral partners with portable books of business, (3) expanding the healthcare and energy practices, and (4) enhancing the associate development program. The firm aims to grow revenue by 5-7% annually through organic growth and strategic mergers. In 2024, the firm launched a dedicated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practice to advise clients on sustainability compliance. The future roadmap also includes a greater emphasis on alternative fee arrangements and value-based billing.

The firm plans to open two new offices in Texas and North Carolina within five years. Additionally, Burr & Forman LLP is developing an AI-driven legal research platform to give attorneys faster insights. The firm’s leadership anticipates that remote work will remain a hybrid model, allowing access to a wider talent pool. By 2030, the firm aims to be recognized as a top 50 regional law firm for innovation and diversity.

Products, Technologies, and Services

As a law firm, Burr & Forman LLP’s primary products are legal services, delivered across multiple practice groups:

• Litigation: Commercial, construction, products liability, class actions, white-collar defense
• Corporate: Mergers & acquisitions, securities, venture capital, corporate governance
• Banking & Finance: Lending, regulatory compliance, bankruptcy
• Real Estate: Development, leasing, zoning, title
• Healthcare: Regulatory, fraud & abuse, telehealth, transactional
• Intellectual Property: Patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets
• Labor & Employment: Counseling, litigation, wage & hour, OSHA
• Tax: Planning, controversy, exempt organizations

The firm leverages technology such as Relativity for e-discovery, Kira Systems for contract analysis, and Microsoft Power BI for data visualization. Attorneys use iManage for document management and Clio for time tracking. The firm also offers a client portal for secure document sharing and billing.

Industries and Markets Served

Burr & Forman LLP serves a diverse range of industries, including financial services (banks, credit unions, fintech); healthcare (hospitals, physician groups, skilled nursing facilities); energy (oil & gas, renewable energy); technology (software, SaaS, data analytics); real estate (developers, REITs); manufacturing (automotive, aerospace); and nonprofit organizations. The firm’s southeastern footprint allows deep local knowledge, while its nationally recognized practices serve clients across the United States.

Geographically, the firm concentrates on Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Delaware. However, due to its litigation prowess, Burr & Forman LLP handles cases in federal courts nationwide. The firm’s industry teams often include attorneys from multiple offices to address complex, multi-state matters.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The firm is led by Managing Partner David B. Byrne Jr., who assumed the role in 2020. The management team includes a five-member Executive Committee elected by partners. Burr & Forman LLP follows a democratic governance model where significant decisions (e.g., mergers, partner compensation) are voted on by equity partners. Department heads oversee practice groups and report to the Executive Committee.

The firm’s philosophy emphasizes servant leadership, transparency, and mentorship. Associates are assigned a partner mentor upon joining and receive formal feedback quarterly. The firm invests in leadership training through the “Burr & Forman Leadership Academy,” a year-long program for high-potential associates. The management team believes that a supportive culture drives retention and client satisfaction.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Burr & Forman LLP hosts several annual events, including the Burr & Forman Golf Classic (charity tournament), the Women’s Initiative Symposium, and the Health Law Institute. The firm sponsors the Alabama State Bar Annual Meeting and participates in the American Bar Association’s annual conference. Community engagement includes pro bono legal clinics for low-income residents, school supply drives, and United Way campaigns. Each office organizes volunteer days with local nonprofits.

The firm also supports first-generation law students through its “Path to Practice” scholarship program. In 2024, Burr & Forman LLP donated over $500,000 to legal aid organizations. These activities reinforce the firm’s commitment to social responsibility.

Employees and Workplace Culture

Burr & Forman LLP employs approximately 600 people, including attorneys, paralegals, legal secretaries, IT professionals, and administrative staff. The workplace culture is described as collegial and collaborative. The firm has an open-door policy and encourages cross-office communication. Employee retention is above industry average, with many attorneys staying 10+ years. The firm offers competitive compensation, including base salary, annual bonuses, 401(k) matching, health insurance, and paid parental leave.

The firm’s diversity committee organizes events for Black History Month, Pride Month, and Women’s History Month. Staff appreciate the firm’s investment in wellness, including a gym subsidy and mental health resources. The hybrid work policy (3 days in-office) allows flexibility. Annual associate retreats and holiday parties foster camaraderie.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position: Litigation Associate Attorney

Location: Birmingham, AL (Hybrid – 3 days in-office)

Salary Range: $120,000 – $180,000 (commensurate with experience)

Job Type: Full-time

Responsibilities

• Handle all phases of commercial litigation, including pleadings, discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation.
• Draft legal briefs, memoranda, and settlement documents.
• Manage e-discovery using Relativity and coordinate with forensic experts.
• Conduct depositions of fact and expert witnesses.
• Represent clients in court appearances and mediations.
• Participate in business development activities and client meetings.
• Mentor junior associates and summer associates.
• Contribute to the firm’s pro bono initiatives.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school (top 25% preferred).
• Active membership in the Alabama State Bar or ability to waive in (must obtain within 6 months).
• 3-5 years of litigation experience at a law firm or government agency.
• Strong writing, oral advocacy, and analytical skills.
• Experience with federal and state court rules.
• Proficiency with legal research platforms (Westlaw, LexisNexis).
• Prior experience in commercial litigation, construction, or products liability is a plus.

Why Join Burr & Forman LLP?

Attorneys at Burr & Forman LLP benefit from a supportive partnership track, excellent mentorship, and a diverse caseload. The firm provides resources for professional development, including continuing legal education stipends and bar dues. Associates also enjoy a collegial culture with low turnover. The firm’s commitment to diversity means that women and minorities hold leadership positions. Additionally, the Birmingham office offers a lower cost of living compared to Atlanta or Nashville, while maintaining big-firm compensation. Join a firm that values work-life balance and community involvement.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Overview

Burr & Forman LLP enjoys a strong reputation among clients and peers. The firm is frequently recommended by in-house counsel for its responsiveness and legal acumen. Below is a comprehensive analysis of reviews from major platforms.

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, Burr & Forman LLP holds a 3.9 out of 5 star rating based on over 100 reviews. Employees praise the collegial atmosphere, approachable partners, and work-life balance. Common positives include “great mentorship” and “meaningful work.” Criticisms focus on billable hour pressure and occasional administrative inefficiencies. Overall, 75% of reviewers would recommend the firm to a friend.

Indeed

Indeed reviews average 4.0 stars. Attorneys highlight the “supportive culture” and “competitive compensation.” Staff mention strong job security and benefits. Negative feedback includes limited advancement for non-attorney roles. The firm consistently appears on Indeed’s “Best Places to Work” lists.

Gartner Peer Insights

As a law firm, Gartner reviews are less common, but clients rated Burr & Forman LLP 4.5/5 for its e-discovery capabilities. The firm was recognized for “innovative use of technology” in litigation.

Trustpilot

Trustpilot reviews are mixed, with an average of 3.8 stars. Clients appreciate timely updates and fair billing. Some complain about high rates but acknowledge quality outcomes.

G2

G2 reviews focus on the firm’s legal research software, with 4.2/5 for ease of use. Internal feedback from lawyers notes that the firm encourages experimentation with new tools.

Google Reviews

Burr & Forman LLP’s Google rating is 4.6 stars across multiple office locations. Clients mention “responsive attorneys” and “excellent case strategy.” Negative reviews are rare and usually relate to billing disputes resolved quickly.

LinkedIn Reputation

On LinkedIn, the firm has over 15,000 followers. Employees share articles about firm achievements and community service. The company profile highlights awards and recognitions. The firm is considered a top employer in the legal category on LinkedIn.

Why Organizations Choose Burr & Forman LLP

Organizations select Burr & Forman LLP for its deep bench of experienced attorneys, regional focus, and client-first service. The firm’s proactive approach—such as early case assessment and budget transparency—reduces costs. Clients also value the firm’s industry specialization, which allows tailored advice. The firm’s stability (over 100 years) reassures clients facing complex litigation. Additionally, Burr & Forman LLP’s commitment to diversity resonates with corporate clients requiring diverse legal teams.

The firm’s use of alternative fee arrangements (fixed fees, capped fees) gives clients predictability. Many clients describe the firm as a “strategic partner” rather than a vendor. This loyalty is reflected in long-standing relationships with major banks and healthcare systems.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Burr & Forman LLP using the following contact details:

Address: 420 North 20th Street, Suite 1000, Birmingham, Alabama 35203
Contact Number: (205) 251-3000
Support Number: (866) 375-4335
Helpdesk Number: (205) 251-3000 (ask for IT support)
Website: https://www.burr.com

Official Social Media Presence

Follow Burr & Forman LLP on social media for news and insights:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/burr-&-forman-llp
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/BurrForman
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BurrandForman
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BurrForman

SEO FAQ Section

Burr & Forman LLP was founded in 1905 in Birmingham, Alabama, and has grown into a regional law firm with over 300 attorneys.

Burr & Forman LLP is headquartered at 420 North 20th Street, Birmingham, Alabama.

Burr & Forman LLP offers services in litigation, corporate, banking, real estate, healthcare, intellectual property, and more.

Burr & Forman LLP employs over 300 attorneys across 12 offices.

The partnership track at Burr & Forman LLP typically takes 7-9 years.

Yes, Burr & Forman LLP has active diversity initiatives including affinity groups and a diversity committee.

The annual billable hour target at Burr & Forman LLP is 1,950 hours.

Yes, Burr & Forman LLP has a hybrid policy of 3 days in-office and 2 days remote.

Associate salaries at Burr & Forman LLP range from $120,000 to $180,000 depending on experience.

Burr & Forman LLP is ranked by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers.

Attorneys at Burr & Forman LLP average over 50 hours of pro bono annually.

Burr & Forman LLP uses Relativity, Kira Systems, iManage, and Microsoft 365.

Burr & Forman LLP is known for a collegial, collaborative culture with low turnover.

Yes, Burr & Forman LLP runs a 10-week summer program with a high offer rate.

Burr & Forman LLP serves financial services, healthcare, energy, technology, and manufacturing.

Visit the careers page on Burr & Forman LLP’s website or apply through the LinkedIn job posting.

Yes, Burr & Forman LLP offers fixed fees, capped fees, and other alternative billing models.

The managing partner of Burr & Forman LLP is David B. Byrne Jr.

Burr & Forman LLP has 12 offices in the southeastern United States.

Yes, Burr & Forman LLP is consistently rated as a top workplace by employees and legal publications.

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