Law Firms Discover Lawyers Want A Life

Are law firms getting "cuddly"?

IN the last two decades, as working schedules became flexible, and even accounting firms, of all places, embraced the mantra of work-life balance (at least on paper), there was one unbending, tradition-bound profession: the law.

That is why it is so remarkable to watch the legal world racing — metaphorical black robes flapping — to catch up.

Over the last few years and, most strikingly, the last few months, law firms have been forced to rethink longstanding ways of doing business, if they are to remain fully competitive.

Beginning this year, Howrey’s starting pay, $160,000, will match the industry average, but further increases will depend on merit, not seniority. This will allow some to reach partnership sooner and others later. It will also allow associates to work at their own pace, with the understanding that a less insane life can be had for a somewhat lower salary.

Uh, if $160,000 if a "somewhat lower salary", where do I sign up?

That is also the message behind changes at Chapman & Cutler, a midsize firm in Chicago, which rolled out a two-tier pay scale in September.

Associates can choose to bill 2,000 hours a year and be paid accordingly. Those who would like to see their families a little more can opt for 1,850 billable hours. Both groups will have a chance to become partner, albeit at different paces. Given the choice, more than half took the reduced schedule.

It should be noted that this is not the first moment when the profession has seemed poised for change. It has been six years since the American Bar Association issued a report calling for the end of the billable hour.

I find it very interesting that over half of the associates chose the reduced schedule.  I wonder if there was any difference in that choice based on gender?  (Women generally are more willing to give up salary for more fulfillment and/or flexibility in working conditions.)  All of these trends sound very positive to me and my prospective foray into the legal field.

(HT My Open Wallet)