BigLaw — Associate negotiation?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP here. Result of convo was title bump next cycle. I wasn’t looking for increased comp, as that’s obviously not fueling my search. Mostly some sense of progression.

So “counsel”? How many titles are there really in biglaw? I’m surprised title was your goal.

OP here. I guess I’m not creative or imaginative enough — I honestly don’t know what else the goal can/should be?! It’s not money unless something substantial, as 10k or even 50k doesn’t feel significant anymore. They’ve told me they will try to make whatever opportunities I’m interested in in terms of professional development happen. Part time is a possibility. I think the door is still open for conversation — what more should I ask for!

Are you litigation? Will you be considered for partner next year?

[Anonymous]

OP. No, not partner. Most at my firm are counsel for at least a few years before being considered for partner -- counsel is basically the equivalent of a non-equity partner. So I could stay, they'll promote me to counsel and maybe eventually to partner (likely in 3-6 years), and I could make amazing money doing reasonably interesting work but with higher stress and long hours. Or I can go to a government agency where everyone seems universally happy and satisfied, have reasonable hours, and make $170K.

[Anonymous]

Signing bonuses and retention bonuses definitely happen. I got offered a retention bonus when a bunch of partners in my group left for another firm and they were scared we’d all go. Then the firm they went to started offering signing bonuses. It was awesome. I made so much on that one.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Signing bonuses and retention bonuses definitely happen. I got offered a retention bonus when a bunch of partners in my group left for another firm and they were scared we’d all go. Then the firm they went to started offering signing bonuses. It was awesome. I made so much on that one.

What area? Capital markets is the only thing I’ve heard is that hot.