When evaluating an offer, determine what is and is not negotiable. Find out whether your target employer has a lock step or merit-based compensation system and where you might fall within their scheme. Many law firms have an established base or narrow range of compensation for each class year within their associate ranks, while others…
If confidentiality is critical to your job search, any marked change in your schedule, behavior, attitude, work product, or attire could arouse suspicion. Furthermore, you must be careful how you use online job search resources and reach out to your networks. If you are have a job while seeking a new opportunity, the consequences of…
Since the onset of the “Great Recession”, law firms hire fewer lawyers and vet candidates more thoroughly before extending an offer. Recent polls of NALP (National Association of Law Placement) and NALSC (National Association of Legal Search Consultants) members, show an increasing number of law firms now use behavioral interviewing to better assess candidates’ qualifications.…
It’s not when you graduated, but what you know. Most law firms, unlike other businesses, categorize associates by JD graduation year rather than level of expertise for purposes of hiring, compensation and promotion. Until recently, the lockstep model made some sense, assuming that associates who enter law practice at the same time gain like experience…
