If you or your partner or your friend is a partner at a large law firm (top 20).....

[FastAway]

How old were they when you/they got partnership? How did it change your/their working pattern and life? And if they have gone through the process of being made an equity partner, how long did that take?

Thanks

Brother isn’t a lawyer but did finally make partner at a accountancy company at 32. It took a few years for the paperwork to go through. Didn’t really change his work pattern except he needs to be a lot more flexible during holidays

It really depends on a lot of things at what age you will be made partner. If anything once you are made partner the pressure really ramps up as you are under pressure to bring in new clients and exceed your budgets so your life is all about work between client work and networking with potential and existing clients.

Some people never make equity but it can a few years to make equity and you only will if you are bringing in substantial fees and have spent substantial time networking and and getting yourself out there.

It’s huge pressure and your personal life takes a back seat for the majority of your working life.

35

Sorry, should have said that making equity took another 6 years

Thanks all.... it’s my husband not me, probably all going to get signed off by the end of the week. It’s exciting but daunting. It’s taken a while, he’s 38, been told today he should expect equity in 4 ish years which seems quick seeing how long it’s taken him to become salaried partner......

DH. Salaried partner at 36. Fixed share at 38, now applying for full equity at 41. He works fewer hours now than when he was a senior associate. There were 3 gruelling years as a SA ( which coincided with the baby years, but we got through). Promotion didn't really make a big difference to our daily lives. He still sorts the laundry and does his share of the school runs. Works from home once or twice a week. Lots of time spent bringing on associates ( and supporting their professional and sometimes personal issues). The money is very nice, but we don't live extravagantly. He's rarely stressed about work ( although the no-deal contingencies have got to him a bit lately). We both work hard, enjoy family life and make a good team.