Most law firms, unlike other businesses, categorize associates by law school graduation year rather than level of expertise for purposes of hiring, compensation, and promotion. Until recently, the traditional lockstep model made some sense, assuming that associates who enter law practice at the same time gain like experience at similar firms. Class year designation, therefore,…
When making a lateral move as a partner-level attorney, your primary consideration should be whether the new firm can provide a better platform to enhance your ability to attract and service clients. Just as hiring firms conduct due diligence when acquiring a lateral partner, it’s equally important that you, the candidate, do your homework before…
Billing by the hour remains central to private law practice despite its adverse impact on client service and lawyers’ quality of life. More than two decades ago, a 2002 ABA Commission on Billable Hours study discussed the negative effects of hourly billing and urged alternative billing arrangements. Most lawyers in practice today consider hourly billing…
The recession put extreme pressure on the legal marketplace, not only decreasing employment opportunities with traditional law firms but also giving rise to new career options for lawyers. Attorneys seeking employment in the new economy must think outside the box to maximize their career opportunities. New ways of delivering legal services spawned alternative provider organizations,…
