Billable hour targets Forum

[sach1282]

In the NALP profiles, when a firm lists a billable hour target, what exactly will happen if you don't make that target? I ask this because when looking through firm profiles I have noticed that average hours billed (for firms that list it) is almost always lower than their billable target.

Does it mean that you have to bill X hours in order to be eligible for a bonus?

Does it mean you will get officially sanctioned (or fired?) for not meeting targets?

Does it mean you will be unofficially sanctioned (for instance, being passed over for raises or slowed down on the partnership track)?

Even if it depends on each firm's individual policy, is there a general rule that applies to most firms?

[Cavalier]

First of all, wrong forum.

Second of all, it's very firm dependent. Generally speaking, you won't be fired for missing the billable target (unless you drastically under bill), but it will probably affect your bonus (its size, or whether you receive it at all). You won't be sanctioned, but keep in mind that those attorneys gunning for partner will probably be billing substantially above the minimum. The NALP data is from 2010--during 2009 and 2010 there was significantly less work as a result of the recession, but things seem to be picking up.

[Renzo]

First of all, wrong forum.

Second of all, it's very firm dependent. Generally speaking, you won't be fired for missing the billable target (unless you drastically under bill), but it will probably affect your bonus (its size, or whether you receive it at all). You won't be sanctioned, but keep in mind that those attorneys gunning for partner will probably be billing substantially above the minimum. The NALP data is from 2010--during 2009 and 2010 there was significantly less work as a result of the recession, but things seem to be picking up.

This is all true; except, you might be fired for not making your hours, it just won't look like traditional firing where they call you in and tell you to clean out your desk. Rather, they will gently begin to let you know that you don't really have a future with the firm, and you will take the hint and start to explore other options.