BIGLAW

BIGLAW is the culture and mentality that exists at many of the large law firms in the United States. The typical BIGLAW law firm is characterized by inflexible hierarchy accompanied by "cram-down", fierce competition, repetitive tasks, and long hours. New law school graduates are recruited and hired as associates. They will be required to bill certain numbers of hours, some firms requiring as high as 3000 hours per year. (Keep in mind that one billable hour can take 1.2 or more hours to bill.) Working all night and sleeping for a few hours in the office on a cot is not uncommon. Associates will often be given the tasks that have been passed down from one supervisor to the next, meaning they are stuck doing the worst, most meaningless work. Last, if you work harder than the other associates, you will be advanced and will find yourself competing against the "creme of the crop" (the others who could handle the BIGLAW life) for the next promotion.

A close friend related to me something a recruiter told him in an interview for a spot at a BIGLAW law firm. He said the following, "At this firm, you are allowed to have one hobby outside of work. Examples of your one hobby are family, religion, golf, etc. Take your pick."

For me this would just be too big of a sacrifice. The next 3-5 years are some of the most important, special years for my children (now 4 and 1). Ideally my career would take me away less than 50 hours a week.

Any thoughts? I would be especially curious to hear comments from individuals who've worked at the big law firms.