I've been in practice for about a year at a high stakes plaintiffs litigation firm. I make $85/year, I'm in the office at 8 and leave around 5:30. I work occasionally on Saturdays. When we have something big coming up, I stay extra to get it done in time. I've never missed a deadline.

I had a meeting this week where the partners told me they questioned my commitment because they were working more hours than me.

Am I the problem here and should work more, or is it time to find a new job?

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Lawyers talk about work/life balance, but few actually manage it. Being Plaintiff's side is better for accomplishing it though.

I'd recommend doing what you are doing (maybe a little more short term to get them off your back) and learning everything that makes their practice successful and building relationships. Once you have the comfort of knowing you can do it yourself, knowing how to bring in cases, and knowing who to work different cases with (often lawyers at another Plaintiff's firm), dip out to start your own practice (or join with another lawyer at your firm with similar views).

Nobody looks back at life thinking they wish they spent more time in the office. I love what I do, but I value my personal time more. I could make more money by working more, but it would negatively affect my personal life, relationships, and my overall happiness. I make plenty enough money to work when I want on what I want. If I wake up on a Tuesday and I'd rather go fishing than to the office, I'm going to go fishing (assuming it doesn't prevent me from meeting deadlines or case obligations).

likesmart

I think I would love my own firm, and planned to dip out after a few years anyway. Right now Im stuck between 1) stick to the plan, get what you can from the practice, make connections and plan to leave in a year or so; 2) find a new rabbi now and work for them, consider your own firm down the road; and 3) fuck it. Get on the court appointed list, keep the lights on, and work the hell outta PI cases when they come your way.

Nope. That’s the PI atmosphere. They’re trying to get you to stay until 9pm and work seven days a week. Once you know what you’re doing, get out of there and start your own shop. It only gets worse.

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Partner 1 below answers your question perfectly. I wouldn’t add anything.

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Your salary sounds low. I’d look around in your area for comparison. Starting at 85k seems low and now they want more.

likesmart

I was thrilled with it when I started. I became far and away the best paid member of my family. I had thought of being a PD, so was bracing for $55k/year there. But yeah, now I'm thinking the grass is greener somewhere else.

The more time you put in the more you learn and grow. Normally it takes 3 to 4 years to fully understand trial work. Learn from the best

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This is a good point. I truly believe that I'm working for the best in the state at what they do, and I'm learning a lot. But I'm not willing to do 60 hours a week and I don't want to get fired, I'd rather leave on good terms if possible.

What state?

South East. I worry that if I ID the state someone can figure out my firm from the rest of this post.

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