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Time constraints notwithstanding, are associates allowed to do legal work on the side when working for a big firm?

My firm doesn't allow associates to do that

When it comes to helping out a family member or friend, just not sure. Interesting question.

My handbook said any client of any associate automatically become a client of the firm for conflict and liability purposes. So no side hustle allowed.

No you are not allowed to do legal work on the side because of conflicts and liability (i.e. malpractice). If you have a family member or friend that you want to help, you go to your supervising attorney or managing partner and ask if it is ok.

If it is something small like drafting your parents will or something, then sure no one needs to know about that. If it is anything more substantial that might require you filing something or the like, you can't without approval.

No. Good way to get sued for malpractice AND fired.

I just have to ask - what sort of legal work would you be doing on the side?

I feel like if you're asking this forum rather than asking your supervising attorney, the answer is probably no...

pro bono?

pancakes3 wrote:pro bono?

Same conflict and liability issues exist. That's why pro bono cases are vetted by the firm and supervised by a partner.

r6_philly wrote:

pancakes3 wrote:pro bono?

Same conflict and liability issues exist. That's why pro bono cases are vetted by the firm and supervised by a partner.

I thought certain non-profits (legal aid) can supervise themselves and have the associate covered under their malpractice insurance, but in either case conflicts exist.

*I have zero personal experience, just thought an associate told me once that they did not have an in-house supervisor.

WhiteCollarBlueShirt wrote:

r6_philly wrote:

pancakes3 wrote:pro bono?

Same conflict and liability issues exist. That's why pro bono cases are vetted by the firm and supervised by a partner.

I thought certain non-profits (legal aid) can supervise themselves and have the associate covered under their malpractice insurance, but in either case conflicts exist.

*I have zero personal experience, just thought an associate told me once that they did not have an in-house supervisor.

That's because legal aid is a law firm, and you are essentially helping them with their clients as a cocounsel, so you are covered under them. But even in that case (liability is covered by them), your firm is subject to conflicts flowing from your representation.

Generally what's been allowed in my experience is wills, real estate, maybe personal injury work for family and friends, with firm's approval.

i also guess it's not much of a hustle when you're doing it pro bono...