Biglaw Firm Touts Successful Year, But Doesn't Thank Associates With Special Bonuses
And associates are NOT happy.
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This year, Biglaw bonus season generally consists of two components — the traditional year-end bonus and special bonuses given in appreciation of associates’ hard work during this particularly challenging time. And if the total bonuses don’t add up to those combined numbers, well, then a firm is below market.
At Alston & Bird, the year-end bonuses are individualized and tied to hours, not class year, as at most Biglaw firms. But even beyond that issue, tipsters at the firm are reporting that the bonuses are only year-end money with no special bonus money. And insiders are pissed. Take a look at some of the comments we’re getting:
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In an extremely short-sighted decision and despite constant reassurances that the firm performed remarkably well during the pandemic, Alston & Bird refused to match any COVID special bonuses, full stop. Associates are justifiably livid and I’ve heard rumors of people already seeking out opportunities elsewhere.
Alston & Bird bonus announcements official. No special 2020 bonus. Hours bonus scale the same as prior years (not pegged to class).
Word across the firm is that despite high bonus thresholds to get NY market (2150 with max 150 pro bono hours), no one got a covid bonus. No explanation given, but associates were told the firm is having one of their best years ever. No one is happy.
No covid bonuses after repeatedly hearing about how the firm is having an incredible year. Very, very angry.
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No covid bonuses at Alston & Bird. I. I billed in the 2200-2400 range and didn’t even get anything above regular market. I’m fuming
No special 2020 bonus.
Ordinary bonus still pegged to hours, not class. Hours tiers same as last several years. Dramatically below NYC market.
Very disappointing for 2400+ hrs.
Oof. It stinks to bill that much for the firm and feel unappreciated.
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Kathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).
