Building an Accountable Attorney Performance System

Industry
Technology
Challenge
A law firm recognized that their existing methods for evaluating and compensating attorneys were lacking clarity and effectiveness. The ambiguity in performance expectations and compensation structures failed to drive desired behaviors or support associate development. The firm needed a structured, objective system to enhance performance and facilitate partner admissions.
Results
The firm successfully implemented a transparent and fair performance management and compensation system. This new system provided clarity for attorneys, established clear paths for advancement, and facilitated the admission of new partners under updated criteria.
Key Product
ATTORNEY PERFORMANCE
The Challenge
Before partnering with PerformLaw, the law firm faced significant challenges with their attorney evaluation and compensation methods. The existing system was ambiguous, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction among attorneys. This lack of clarity hindered desired behaviors and did not adequately support the development and progression of associates. The firm needed a solution that would provide clear expectations, objective criteria, and a transparent path to partnership.
The Solution
The firm discovered PerformLaw's structured and objective attorney performance system, which promised to address their challenges comprehensively. After evaluating other potential solutions, the firm chose PerformLaw due to its deep industry expertise and tailored approach. PerformLaw's system included clear performance expectations, transparent salary scales, bonus plans, progression criteria, and partner admission policies. The implementation process involved close collaboration with PerformLaw, ensuring the system was effectively integrated and tailored to the firm's specific needs.
The Results
After implementing PerformLaw's attorney performance system, the firm experienced significant improvements. Attorneys gained a clear understanding of performance expectations and the criteria for advancement. The transparent compensation and bonus structures motivated attorneys to achieve their goals, while the clear paths for progression supported their development. Notably, the firm successfully admitted its first new partners under the updated criteria, marking a milestone achievement. The new system fostered a culture of accountability and growth, ultimately enhancing the firm's overall performance.