Firm Squeeze Is Destroying Associate Wellbeing
I (32M) am a third-year associate at one of the largest firms in my state. Earlier this year, I thought I’d really made it. Motions and briefs were rarely taking more than a couple of hours—complicated stuff maybe a few days. Had a couple of interesting trials under my belt, have taken about 15 depositions, lay and expert. The real measure of progress was that it felt like I’d finally gotten to a point where I could have a life outside work.
Apparently law firms are subject to wider market forces, and the firm is down for the year. Over the last month, the firm has just been throwing projects at us. Last-minute TRO/PIs, emergency day-long hearings, and massive, complex matters where it’s one associate on a file with very limited partner involvement. I have worked every day for the last month and half. Weekends too. I am barely getting sleep. Other associates are in the same position.
I’m in a bad place, mentally. My work is getting sloppy, bigger projects are pushing other stuff onto the back burner, and it feels intolerable. I guess what I’m looking for is for miserable company. Is anyone else feeling squeezed? Have you had stretches like this? How did it resolve? I know litigation has a rhythm. I thought I’d found it, and think I’m wrong.