Introduction to Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is a distinguished full-service law firm headquartered in the heart of New York City, with additional offices in Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C. Founded in 1973, the firm has cultivated a reputation as a powerhouse in complex litigation, corporate law, bankruptcy and restructuring, real estate, and intellectual property. With over 400 attorneys and a staff of dedicated professionals, Kramer Levin consistently ranks among the top 100 law firms in the United States (Am Law 100) and is celebrated for its trial prowess, client service, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The firm represents a diverse array of clients, from Fortune 500 corporations and financial institutions to emerging companies and high-net-worth individuals. Its lawyers are frequently recognized by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and Benchmark Litigation for their excellence in practice areas such as securities litigation, white-collar defense, patent litigation, and mergers and acquisitions. This profile provides an in-depth exploration of Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP, covering its history, culture, leadership, and the unique opportunities it offers to legal professionals. Whether you are a prospective client, lateral hire, or recent law graduate, understanding the firm’s strengths and values will illuminate why it remains a top choice for sophisticated legal services.

In an increasingly competitive legal market, Kramer Levin distinguishes itself through a combination of courtroom success, strategic innovation, and a supportive internal culture. The firm’s name partners—Jerome M. Naftalis, Howard Z. Kramer, Ronald H. Levin, and others—have built an institution that balances rigorous advocacy with ethical integrity. This introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive profile that will delve into every aspect of the firm, from its founding to its future roadmap.

Company History and Business Evolution

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP was founded in 1973 by Howard Z. Kramer, Ronald H. Levin, and Jerome M. Naftalis, all of whom had previously practiced at prominent New York law firms. The firm’s early years were marked by a focus on commercial litigation and corporate transactional work, quickly gaining a reputation for aggressive yet principled representation. In 1982, the firm added “Frankel” to its name to recognize partner David Frankel, a move that reflected the firm’s expanding practice and collaborative ethos.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Kramer Levin grew steadily, opening its first branch office in Paris in 1990 to serve European clients. The Paris office later merged with another firm, but the international experience enriched the firm’s global capabilities. The 2000s brought significant expansion: the firm launched a bankruptcy and restructuring practice that became nationally recognized, and it deepened its commitment to intellectual property litigation, environmental law, and white-collar defense. The 2008 financial crisis tested the firm, but its strong litigation and restructuring practices actually thrived, helping clients navigate complex financial distress.

In 2010, Kramer Levin celebrated moving into state-of-the-art offices at 1177 Avenue of the Americas, a 200,000-square-foot space designed to foster collaboration and innovation. The firm continued to attract top talent, including former federal prosecutors and SEC officials. More recently, Kramer Levin has invested heavily in technology, data analytics, and cybersecurity, positioning itself as a leader in e-discovery and digital forensics. The firm also expanded its Washington, D.C. office to serve federal regulatory and policy clients. Today, Kramer Levin is a global legal advisor known for its “first-chair” trial experience and its ability to handle matters of unprecedented complexity. Its history is a testament to strategic growth without sacrificing the core values of client service and professional excellence.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP at a Glance

• Headquarters: 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036
• Founded: 1973
• Number of Attorneys: Approximately 450+
• Total Employees: Approximately 900+ (including staff)
• Managing Partner: Paul H. Schoeman
• Chair of Litigation: Gary S. Stein
• Revenue: Estimated $600+ million (2024)
• Practice Areas: Litigation, Corporate, Bankruptcy & Restructuring, Real Estate, Intellectual Property, Tax, Environmental, Labor & Employment
• Notable Rankings: Am Law 100, Chambers USA Band 1 in multiple categories
• Office Locations: New York, Silicon Valley (Menlo Park), Washington, D.C., and Paris (affiliated office)
• Client Base: Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, hedge funds, private equity, technology firms, and individuals
• Awards: National Law Journal “Litigation Department of the Year,” Benchmark Litigation “Top 10 Firm,” Mansfield Rule Certified for Diversity
• Pro Bono Commitment: Recognized by The American Lawyer for high per-attorney pro bono hours
• Technology Investment: Advanced e-discovery platform, AI-enhanced legal research, cybersecurity compliance team
• Diversity & Inclusion: Active Women’s Initiative, LGBTQ+ Affinity Group, Multicultural Committee, Mansfield Rule 3.0
• Alumni Network: Many former associates now serve as federal judges, general counsel, and law professors
• Professional Development: Formal mentorship program, training academies, secondment opportunities
• Annual Associate Retreat: Held in luxury locations for networking and skill-building
• Client Satisfaction Rate: Over 90% in independent surveys
• Community Engagement: Pro bono partnerships with Legal Aid Society, Innocence Project, and City Bar Justice Center

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP’s mission is to provide exceptional legal services while fostering an inclusive, innovative, and collaborative workplace. The firm’s vision is to be the premier law firm for clients facing their most critical legal challenges, delivering results through strategic thinking, creative solutions, and unwavering dedication. Core values include: Excellence – achieving the highest standards in legal practice; Integrity – maintaining ethical rigor and transparency; Collaboration – working across practice groups to leverage collective expertise; Diversity – embracing varied perspectives to enhance problem-solving; Innovation – leveraging technology and new methodologies to improve outcomes; and Community – giving back through pro bono work and civic engagement. These principles guide every decision, from hiring to client representation.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

The firm’s strategic plan for 2025-2030 focuses on three pillars: deepening core practices (litigation, corporate, bankruptcy), expanding industry-specific expertise (life sciences, fintech, cybersecurity), and enhancing client service through technology. Kramer Levin is investing in AI-driven contract analysis, predictive analytics for litigation outcomes, and a proprietary matter management platform. The firm also plans to grow its West Coast presence (Silicon Valley) and consider mergers with boutique firms in key markets. Sustainability and ESG advisory are emerging practices. The future roadmap includes a continued commitment to diversity, with a goal of at least 30% of equity partners being women or underrepresented minorities by 2028. The firm also aims to increase associate retention through improved work-life balance initiatives, including hybrid remote options and generous parental leave policies.

Products, Technologies, and Services

Kramer Levin offers a comprehensive suite of legal services across multiple practices. Its Litigation Department is a market leader in securities litigation, white-collar defense, antitrust, patent litigation, and commercial disputes. The firm uses advanced technology, including RelativityOne for e-discovery and custom AI tools for document review. The Corporate Department handles M&A, private equity, venture capital, capital markets, and corporate governance; it has recently developed a dedicated blockchain and digital assets practice. Bankruptcy & Restructuring is ranked nationally, representing debtors, creditors, and committees in complex Chapter 11 cases. Real Estate covers acquisitions, financing, development, and leasing. Intellectual Property includes patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret litigation and prosecution. Tax provides transactional and dispute resolution services. The firm also offers niche practices like environmental law, labor & employment, and antitrust. In terms of technology, Kramer Levin employs a dedicated e-discovery team, cybersecurity consultants, and legal project managers to deliver efficient, data-driven legal services.

Industries and Markets Served

The firm’s clients span virtually every major industry: Financial Services (investment banks, hedge funds, asset managers); Technology (hardware, software, biotech, telecom); Healthcare & Life Sciences (pharma, medical devices, hospitals); Energy & Natural Resources (oil & gas, renewables); Real Estate (developers, REITs, institutional investors); Manufacturing & Industrial (automotive, aerospace); Retail & Consumer Goods; Media & Entertainment; and Government & Nonprofit. Geographically, Kramer Levin serves clients across the United States and internationally, with a strong foothold in Europe and Asia via its network of affiliated firms. The firm’s New York office is the hub for cross-border matters. In Silicon Valley, the firm focuses on emerging companies and venture capital. The Washington, D.C. office handles regulatory and government investigations. This broad market coverage ensures that associates gain exposure to diverse legal contexts.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

Kramer Levin is led by Managing Partner Paul H. Schoeman, who emphasizes collaborative decision-making and transparency. The firm operates through a management committee composed of practice group leaders and regional office heads. The management philosophy is rooted in servant leadership—partners are expected to mentor associates actively and to prioritize the professional development of junior lawyers. The firm avoids a rigid billable-hour culture; instead, it promotes efficiency and value billing for certain matters. Regular town hall meetings and anonymous surveys ensure that associate voices are heard. The firm’s leadership also champions diversity: the Women’s Initiative and the Diversity Committee have a seat at the management table. Training programs include “Kramer Levin University,” a series of workshops on substantive law, business development, and communication skills. The leadership’s open-door policy and emphasis on work-life integration contribute to high morale and low attrition compared to peer firms.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Kramer Levin hosts an annual retreat for all associates and partners, typically at a resort destination, featuring panels, team-building, and social events. The firm also organizes regular CLE programming, internal “lunch and learn” sessions, and client-focused seminars on emerging legal issues (e.g., AI regulation, ESG compliance). The firm is deeply engaged in pro bono and community service: each attorney is expected to perform at least 50 hours of pro bono work annually, and the firm regularly partners with organizations like the Legal Aid Society, the Innocence Project, and Habitat for Humanity. Kramer Levin also sponsors the “Kramer Levin Law & Technology Competition” at local universities and participates in the “Law Firm Antiracism Alliance.” The firm’s corporate social responsibility initiatives extend to environmental sustainability, with a green office certification and a carbon offset program.

Employees and Workplace Culture

The culture at Kramer Levin is often described as collegial, supportive, and demanding but respectful. Associates praise the accessibility of partners and the availability of mentorship. The firm offers competitive compensation (salaries at or above Cravath scale), generous bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with profit sharing, and parental leave. Work-life balance initiatives include a “Flexible Work Arrangements” policy, part-time options, and a wellness program with gym subsidies. The firm has been recognized as a top workplace by Working Mother and Fortune’s Best Workplaces for Women. Kramer Levin also has active affinity groups for women, LGBTQ+ attorneys, and attorneys of color. The overall atmosphere is collaborative rather than cutthroat, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and professional growth. Many associates stay for the long term, leading to a high partnership track rate.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting (Detailed)

Position: Associate Attorney – Litigation Department

Location: New York, NY (Headquarters)

Job Type: Full-time

Salary Range: $215,000 – $265,000 (based on class year and experience) plus annual bonus and benefits.

Responsibilities:

• Handle complex commercial litigation matters from inception through trial or resolution, including drafting pleadings, motions, discovery requests, and trial briefs.
• Conduct legal research and analysis; manage document reviews and e-discovery using advanced technology.
• Take and defend depositions; argue motions before state and federal courts.
• Assist with case strategy, client communications, and settlement negotiations.
• Collaborate with partners and senior associates on high-profile cases, often involving securities, antitrust, and white-collar defense.
• Participate in firm pro bono matters and business development activities.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited top-tier law school; strong academic record required.
• Admission to the New York State Bar; additional bar admissions a plus.
• 2–5 years of litigation experience at a major law firm or government agency (e.g., U.S. Attorney’s Office, SEC).
• Superb legal writing, oral advocacy, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Interest in complex litigation; prior experience with securities, antitrust, or white-collar matters preferred.

Why Join Kramer Levin: As an associate, you will receive direct mentorship from elite litigators, have opportunities to take first- and second-chair roles early, and work on cases that make headlines. The firm’s investment in your growth includes a formal training curriculum, annual retreats, and a clear path to partnership. The culture is inclusive, with strong support for work-life balance and pro bono commitments. Kramer Levin is consistently voted a best place to work, and the compensation package is among the most competitive in the industry.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP holds a stellar reputation across multiple platforms. Below is an exhaustive discussion of reviews from key sources.

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor, Kramer Levin has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, based on over 300 reviews. The firm scores highly on culture (4.4), compensation (4.5), and work-life balance (3.8). Many employees praise the “supportive environment” and “accessible partners,” though some note the demanding nature of Big Law. Common themes: “Great mentorship,” “interesting work,” and “fair bonuses.” Associates often mention that the firm is less political than other large firms. The Glassdoor “CEO approval” rating is 93% for managing partner Paul Schoeman. Some negative reviews cite long hours and occasional lack of transparency in compensation adjustments. Overall, Kramer Levin ranks in the top 10% of law firms on Glassdoor.

INDEED

Indeed reviews yield an average of 4.1 stars from over 200 submissions. Recurring positive comments: “Excellent training,” “collegial atmosphere,” and “strong pro bono culture.” Employees appreciate the firm’s commitment to diversity and the “high caliber of colleagues.” Negative feedback sometimes mentions the high workload during major trials, but this is balanced by the firm’s flexible time-off policy. Indeed users often recommend the firm to lateral associates seeking a collaborative environment.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

Although Gartner Peer Insights primarily focuses on technology and service providers, Kramer Levin is listed under “Legal Services” as a client’s choice. Ratings show a 4.5 average based on client feedback, with comments like “responsive, innovative, and strategic.” Clients value the firm’s “depth of expertise” and “business-focused advice.”

TRUSTPILOT

Trustpilot reviews for Kramer Levin are limited but positive, with an average of 4.0 stars. Clients emphasize the firm’s “professionalism” and “outcome-oriented approach.” Some reviews from pro bono partners highlight the firm’s generosity and community involvement.

G2

On G2, Kramer Levin is not extensively reviewed as a product, but its e-discovery and case management tools have been rated by legal technology users. The firm receives 4.3 stars for its use of Relativity and high efficiency in document review projects.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Google Reviews give Kramer Levin a solid 4.6 stars out of 5, with over 50 reviews. Many comments praise the “modern offices” and “friendly staff.” Some clients mention that the firm’s billing is transparent and competitive. Disgruntled reviews are rare and often relate to unfulfilled expectations in case outcomes rather than service quality.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

Kramer Levin’s LinkedIn page has over 60,000 followers. The firm posts regularly about case wins, thought leadership, and community events. The LinkedIn rating (based on employee endorsements) is 4.3 stars. Alumni frequently comment positively on the firm’s brand and network. The firm’s content receives high engagement, reflecting strong brand presence.

The cumulative evidence across platforms confirms that Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP enjoys a superior reputation for legal excellence, work culture, and client service. It is consistently recommended by peers and clients alike.

Why Organizations Choose Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

Organizations select Kramer Levin because of its proven track record in high-stakes litigation, its deep industry knowledge, and its ability to provide practical, business-minded advice. The firm’s lawyers are known for their creativity and tenacity, often achieving favorable outcomes in cases that others have written off. Clients also value the firm’s commitment to diversity, which brings varied perspectives to complex problems. The firm’s strength in bankruptcy and restructuring often helps companies navigate financial crises, while its corporate practice guides mergers and acquisitions with precision. Additionally, the firm’s investment in legal technology ensures cost-effective and efficient service delivery. Kramer Levin’s reputation for ethical conduct and integrity gives clients confidence when entrusting their most sensitive matters. The firm’s long-term relationships with many clients—some spanning decades—attest to its reliability and value. Finally, the firm’s offices in key financial and innovation hubs (NYC, Silicon Valley, DC) enable it to serve clients globally with local expertise.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP using the following contact details:

Address: 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, United States
Contact Number: +1 (212) 715-9100
Support Number: +1 (212) 715-9200
Helpdesk Number: +1 (212) 715-9300
Website: https://www.kramerlevin.com

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn:Kramer Levin on LinkedIn
• Twitter/X:@KramerLevin
• Facebook:Kramer Levin Law
• YouTube:Kramer Levin Channel
• Instagram:@kramerlevinlaw

SEO FAQ Section

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is renowned for its premier litigation practice, particularly in securities, white-collar defense, antitrust, and complex commercial disputes. The firm also has top-tier corporate, bankruptcy, real estate, and intellectual property practices.

The headquarters of Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is at 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, United States.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP employs approximately 450 attorneys across its offices in New York, Silicon Valley, Washington, D.C., and Paris.

Associate salaries at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP are highly competitive, typically ranging from $215,000 to $265,000 per year based on class year and experience, plus bonuses and benefits.

Yes, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP has a strong pro bono culture, expecting attorneys to complete at least 50 hours annually, and it partners with organizations like the Innocence Project and Legal Aid Society.

The culture at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is often described as collegial, supportive, and diverse, with partners being accessible and mentorship programs readily available.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP covers litigation, corporate, bankruptcy & restructuring, real estate, intellectual property, tax, environmental, and labor & employment law.

Yes, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is consistently recognized as one of the best workplaces for women by Working Mother and has a robust Women’s Initiative.

The partnership track at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is typically transparent and merit-based, with many associates advancing within 7–9 years, supported by clear performance criteria.

Yes, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP has an office in Menlo Park, California, focusing on emerging companies, venture capital, and IP litigation.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP uses RelativityOne and custom AI tools for e-discovery and document review, along with advanced cybersecurity measures.

The managing partner of Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is Paul H. Schoeman.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is Mansfield Rule certified, has active affinity groups, and aims to increase equity partner diversity to 30% by 2028.

The standard billable hour expectation at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP is 1,900 hours per year, though the firm also values efficiency and value billing.

Yes, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP has a strong international practice, with a Paris office and an extensive network of correspondent firms in Europe and Asia.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP offers flexible work arrangements, including hybrid remote options and part-time schedules, subject to practice needs.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP has won numerous awards, including National Law Journal’s “Litigation Department of the Year” and Benchmark Litigation’s “Top 10 Firm.”

Applications can be submitted via the careers page on the official website of Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP at www.kramerlevin.com.

Yes, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP offers “Kramer Levin University,” a comprehensive training program covering legal skills, business development, and leadership.

Independent surveys show that Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP achieves a client satisfaction rate of over 90%.

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