Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%
Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.
Should Large Law Firms Penalize RTO Rebels or Explore Alternatives?
The shift back to in-office work presents a significant challenge for large law firms that have embraced remote work over the past few years. According to our recent survey, the vast majority of firms already had an RTO policy in place by 2023; however, also at that time, compliance was at an all-time low where firms reported a shocking 94% of their attorneys were not compliant with policy.
In 2024, while many firms are improving these numbers and getting their attorneys back into the office, a small number of attorneys resist, and the question is how to get the resisters to comply with policy. Whether it's because of lease obligations, mentorship, culture, or all of the above, firms have turned up their efforts to get their attorneys back into the office.
Increasingly, firms are getting serious about enforcing compliance through punitive measures — here are some of the most newsworthy steps firms are taking:
- Bonus cuts: Several Big Law firms have gone the way of either cutting bonus pay for associates and partners or publicly taking into consideration bonus cuts to incentivize more time in the office. (See, "Big Law Bonuses Hold Steady But Come With More Strings," Bloomberg.)
- Job loss or loss of partner track: Repeated failure to comply with RTO policies may lead to job loss at some large firms for lower-level associates or threats of not staying on partner track. (See, "Associates Apparently Won't Have Jobs For Long If They Don't Return To The Office," Above the Law.)
- Reducing or eliminating remote privileges: Several big-name firms are even backtracking their previous embrace of flexible work policies and now embracing a culture of punishment to enforce compliance. (See, "Cravath Backtracks Flexible Work," Above the Law.)
- Increased oversite: Some firms have taken the tack of increasing oversight of their attorneys from sending monthly reports tracking i-office attendance, holding check-ins with non-compliant attorneys, and issuing warnings from practice group leaders or firm leadership. (See, "Top 50 Law Firms Cracking Down on In-Office Attendance," Above the Law.)
It all comes from the top down, of course, which is why some firms are toying with the idea of creating rules around partner time in the office as well, but this remains to be seen. (See, "Biglaw Firm's Leader Thinks Partners Need To Return To The Office To Guide Associates Back," Above the Law)
This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only
ENJOY UNLIMITED ACCESS TO THE SINGLE SOURCE OF OBJECTIVE LEGAL ANALYSIS, PRACTICAL INSIGHTS, AND NEWS IN ENTERTAINMENT LAW.
- Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
- Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
- Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts
Already a have an account? Sign In Now Log In Now
For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473
Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace
Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.
Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO
This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.
While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum
For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.
Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed
In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.
From DeepSeek to Distillation: Protecting IP In An AI World
Protection against unauthorized model distillation is an emerging issue within the longstanding theme of safeguarding intellectual property. This article examines the legal protections available under the current legal framework and explore why patents may serve as a crucial safeguard against unauthorized distillation.