Law Firms Turn to ‘Stay Interviews’ to Retain Associates Amid Downsizing Trend

Associates appear to be remaining at their respective firms for longer durations than traditionally expected, prompting law firms to downsize in response to a precarious job market for junior lawyers. This anomaly is challenging expectations of normal employee turnover in these firms. Read more.

In an effort to retain their associate talent once the lateral market recovers, some law firms are employing a new method called ‘stay interviews’. This technique assists talent managers in understanding the shifting needs of their post-pandemic workforce. The approach seems particularly relevant for second and third-year associates who began their legal careers under conditions of remote work.

Firms such as Lathrop GPM and Cozen O’Connor are utilizing these ‘stay interviews’ to get crucial insights directly from their current associates before they opt to leave. These discussions allow firms to understand better what their associates do and don’t appreciate in the current work environment. Full story here.