Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-2000
Journal Title
University of Missouri Kansas City Law Review
ISSN
0047-7575
Abstract
This article analyzes the results of an empirical study to illustrate the effect of billable hour requirements on associate satisfaction and law firm culture. Part I briefly describes the survey design and the general profile of the survey respondents. Part II discusses current billing practices and pressures analyzing the study results related to billing expectations and guidance as well as firm culture and work alternatives. Using findings from the study, Part III considers the detrimental micro and macro effects of increasing billable hour expectations. Part IV proposes various steps and measures that can be taken to address the negative consequences of emphasizing billable hour production. Part V concludes by reasserting that bar and firm leaders who address the deleterious effects of high billable hour expectations will improve both the quality or work for clients and the quality of life for firm attorneys.
First Page
239
Last Page
309
Num Pages
71
Volume Number
69
Issue Number
2
Publisher
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Recommended Citation
Susan S. Fortney,
Soul for Sale: An Empirical Study of Associate Satisfaction, Law Firm Culture, and the Effects of Billable Hour Requirements,
69
UMKC L. Rev.
239
(2000).
Available at:
https://scholarship.law.tamu.edu/facscholar/314