Law Practice Management
New Merit-Based Associate Pay at U.K.‘s Norton Rose
Posted Feb 11, 2008, 11:25 am CST
By Martha Neil
A well-known British firm is eliminating its traditional experience-based associate pay system and moving to a system that rewards with higher salaries those who demonstrate legal skills.
Norton Rose will divide associates into three groups: those who are newly admitted, those who are essentially midlevel associates, based on their demonstrated legal skills, and senior associates publicly recognized as such, reports the Lawyer. Traditionally, the firm has paid associates based on their years of post-qualification experience.
The new system will evaluate associates in five core competencies, the legal publication writes: "the development and application of technical knowledge and skills; efficiency; business development; teamwork; and 'good citizenship.' "
At least some associates reportedly are excited about the change, because it offers the opportunity for more rapid advancement.