A new associate is expected to arrive prepared to practice law, rather than to simply review documents and write research memos. Ideally, time spent in a library leads directly to time spent in a courtroom making legal arguments. Our new associates work in direct contact with partners and clients. In addition, the nature of our practice provides significant file management and first-chair responsibilities to associates. We expect our associates to obtain significant trial experience during their tenure.
Associates receive a salary and a discretionary bonus at year-end.
Bonuses are based upon merit and the firm's profitability. In addition, the firm offers health and life insurance along with long-term disability coverage. All state license fees and state and county bar association fees are paid by the firm. Parking in an underground ramp of Metropolitan Centre is also paid by the firm. We certainly follow the traditional school year, with most of our entry-level hires starting after the summer bar exam, but not always.