Slightly demoralized first-year staff attorney here, but doing associate-level work (research, motion drafting, etc.). Is that enough to push for a transition to the associate track, or do firms usually expect more?

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I’m sorry, but you’ll probably have to switch firms. You’re in a growing class of attorneys from whom firms are extracting associate-level work at a third of the cost; there is no argument you can possibly bring that will convince the decision making partners to triple your salary for the same level of work.

likesmart

That actually explains a lot. Thank you

Feel free to have the conversation. But very unlikely they'll let you jump tracks and triple your salary if you're already doing the work. Staff attorneys are cheap and that's why you'll always be busy. Especially in these days where clients think having access to AI means we can do twice the work for half as much.

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I appreciate the candidness. It’s making me wonder whether I should just lateral to a smaller firm

Thanks for this post. I am in the same boat as you.

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What would staff attorney-specific work look like?

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Staff attorneys do the actual legal work that associates do but don’t really manage the relationships with the clients at my previous firm

I hope this comes off the right way. If you’re not on the associate track, what track are you on?

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From my experience, the new attorney is given those types of tasks until another attorney comes on board. It’s all part of the norm. Hang in there as hard word does pay off & be appreciative of the job as they are harder to land with all the AI stuff 😢

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I have had two professions it is a very difficult profession because no one is ever ever happy. Government work is the way to go

likefunny

Probably not, but it doesn't hurt to have the conversation with the boss.

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If there’s someone who likes you or your work, I’d bring it up with them and ask them if it’s possible or how you could go about it. Probably worth applying elsewhere though.

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Fair. Thank you!

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I heard some firms hire good attorneys as staff attorneys if they are not from the list of schools they typically hire from.

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