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Are other practice groups overwhelmed? Some of the regulatory groups at my firm are slammed right now and they're normally very lean when it comes to staffing, so they've been happy to give work to juniors and mid levels who aren't at capacity. A lot of it is doc review or research to free up the regulatory associates to do the specialized work. All of it counts as billable.
Agree re: asking other practice groups for work. Also talk to your PGL about your concern—they may be able to funnel some work to you or at least make you feel better if all the associates are in the same boat. If neither of those things work, try to do some practice skill development—reading up on your area of the law, attend free or cheap zoom seminars, etc.—we have a non-billable code for it so at least the partners know you weren’t just hanging out watching Netflix all day.
Market and try and get new business instead of just asking around for work. A lot of people are in the same boat.
Also, what is your firm's pro bono policy? Obviously it would be ideal if you got billable credit, but even if not, pro bono will allow you to be active and engaged, skill build, etc.
I am doing lots of firm chargeable and pro bono, the issue is the lack of client billable hours. I have reached out to other practice groups with no success so far.
Ok, that makes sense and sorry for repeats of things you've already done. Are there any consequences of not making your hours that concern you in particular? I ask because if your firm isn't putting a ton of pressure on associates or if you are junior enough that expectations are lowered, this may just be a year when you have to tolerate it, especially if things are slow overall.
Obviously if your practice is slammed and you aren't making hours it's a problem and the thread might have different advice on this problem.
I keep a folder of all the emails I send asking for work and the responses I receive for this purpose. I think being able to demonstrate how much you tried helps and to be responses you received when you reached out.
I’d also make sure hours for the things you have control over, like NB work and business development, are as high as they can be to demonstrate your value in other ways. I started in March and with a 2 month deficit will not likely meet my hours, and it’s not expected but I have written 30 client alerts and assisted with numerous other activities so I can demonstrate my value when it comes to review season.
Thank you! I truly appreciate your detailed responses.