Top Law Schools

I am not returning to the firm that paid me a Bar stipend. Is it normal practice for that firm to bill me for the FICA taxes that they apparently paid on the stipend? My offer letter mentions that, if I don't return to the firm, I agree to "reimburse the firm for any stipend/bar-related fees." However, it is not at all clear to me that a "tax" is the same thing as a "fee." Anyone have any insight on this? Much appreciated.

jlo_10 wrote:I am not returning to the firm that paid me a Bar stipend. Is it normal practice for that firm to bill me for the FICA taxes that they apparently paid on the stipend? My offer letter mentions that, if I don't return to the firm, I agree to "reimburse the firm for any stipend/bar-related fees." However, it is not at all clear to me that a "tax" is the same thing as a "fee." Anyone have any insight on this? Much appreciated.

Not an expert on this, but my initial thought is that the firm wouldn't be liable for the FICA tax if the stipend is returned.

Just so I understand: they are asking you to reimburse the employer's portion of FICA? If so, that seems strange very strange.

edit: didn't mean to anon. mods, feel free to unanon me.