Matt Warnock Capital University Law School class of 2007; member of the 2006 clerk class

After spending a summer at Bricker & Eckler, it would be too easy for me to simply provide you with a glowing review of the firm and my summer clerkship experience. Instead of boring you with such a testimonial, my goal is to provide others with a list of reasons why I agree with Business First, which named Bricker & Eckler the best place to work in central Ohio in the medium-sized business category.

1. Collegial Working Environment. From the minute I stepped foot in the firm at a my callback interview, I have experienced firsthand the collegial working environment and “open door” policy that the firm prides itself on. Everyone I met -- including the secretaries, new associates, and partners -- treated me warmly and respectfully. It is not surprising that people actually enjoy coming to work. Perhaps more importantly, the strong working relationships and atmosphere at the firm reminded me of the aspects of my father’s small town practice that helped draw me to the law in the first place.

2. Work-Life Balance. At Bricker & Eckler, one’s life is not defined solely by the law. 90 hour work weeks and overnights at the office are rare and discouraged. Whether it includes spending time with their families, participating in community service activities, or socializing with friends, Bricker attorneys are encouraged to have diversified lives away from the office.

3. Birthday Tables. If cutting back on desserts is one of your goals, Bricker & Eckler might not be the place for you. Several years ago, the firm instituted a birthday table ritual to help the staff and attorneys enjoy individualized attention on their birthdays. On your birthday, a table is set up outside of your office, where plates of cakes, cookies, doughnuts, chips/salsa, and the occasional fruit plate are deposited. Anyone and everyone is encouraged to stop by, grab some food and wish the person a happy birthday. These tables are great for mid-morning/mid-afternoon snacks – if the food lasts that long.

4. Staff. If you really want to know why Bricker & Eckler is one of the premier law firms and businesses in Ohio, one need not look much further than the loyal, hard-working, and team-oriented secretaries, paralegals, and other staff members. These employees keep the firm running smoothly and help the attorneys (and clerks) stay organized and focused.

5. Reputation and Tradition. Named after a late Senator (and former Vice-Presidential candidate), as well as a graduate of the same undergraduate institution as myself (Ohio Wesleyan University), Bricker and Eckler has firmly established itself as one of the preeminent law firms in Ohio. Located in the old federal building, Bricker & Eckler looks and feels as though it is housed in a 19th-century architectural masterpiece. Renovated in the 1980’s, the building is known for its third floor conference room (which used to house the old federal courtroom); elaborate inner courtyard; grand marble staircase; and, law library and mezzanine (which used to house the post office).

6. Location, Location, Location. Located in the heart of downtown Columbus, Bricker is within walking distance of the federal and state courthouses, including the Ohio Supreme Court. Perhaps more importantly, there are several reasonably priced parking lots and lunch spots located within a quarter mile of the firm.