Truth Behind Horror Stories in Big Law?

sallyawp
Thu, 30 May 2013 00:33:28 +0000

ariesathena is absolutely correct about the ability to scale back your work.

In fact, that is exactly the reason why it is extraordinarily difficult for those attorneys with young children (frequently women) who wish to work “part time” to do so effectively. Typically, “part time”, “mommy track” earns you a lower salary and bonus plus takes you off of the typical partner track, but requires a lot more work than you would think.

In my experience, “part time” attorneys usually work 4 days a week in the office, and while they may not be there all night, they are also not leaving at 5 o’clock. They are more likely to leave at 7, spend some time at home, and then pick up more work again later in the evening. On their “off” day, they still remain available for calls, questions, and for work whenever necessary. From what I’ve seen, these arrangements don’t seem to last indefinitely since many either resent working so much for so little money compared to their peers or just decide that they still can’t find the work/life balance that they need.

Again, when you have to satisfy demanding clients, working a set number of hours on a set schedule is often impossible. You may find yourself working fewer hours one week versus the next, but you can’t control when that occurs. Clients set the schedule. You merely respond.