How to Successfully Negotiate an Associate's Salary

When you initially apply for a position in your first firm, you have no value. You must demonstrate your ability to be a "rainmaker" before asserting your value. Therefore, in my experience, you should accept the initial offer...the first time. Ask your boss what his/her expectations are for you in the first 6 months. Then, let the firm know you have steep learning curve and you expect to be up and running earlier than expected. Request a 6 month review. 

Next, get busy observing court, reading transcripts, getting any relevant training available, and learn how to maximize your billable hours as soon as possible. Make sure you are actively making progress in each expectation in that was explained to you in your review. Then document that progress in a document (for yourself at this point) each week.

At your next review - BE PREPARED to demonstrate how you have exceeded the expectations set forth in your last meeting, in writing, and provided to your boss in advance of your meeting. This should be a comprehensive Self-Performance Review (A 3 page sample is available through www.greatyoungattorney.com ). Remember, when making your salary request; do not ignore additional benefits (malpractice insurance, CLE's, 401(k), health benefits, flexibility/independence, etc.)

Lastly, do your research! Know the standard salary in your area of practice, based on geographical location, and level of experience. For more information on negotiating your salary including: where to research your salary statistics, how to respond during the review meeting to proposals, how and when to present a counter offer, and more, visit www.greatyoungattorney.com

Ms. Hooker is the founder of  Great Young Attorney, Inc.   Ms. Hooker has focused her legal career exclusively in the area of family law, particularly litigation.  She received her Bachelor's Degree from Azusa Pacific University, graduating cum laude. She graduated from Regent University School of Law and was admitted to practice law in 2006. She is licensed to practice law in all California Courts.  Ms. Hooker is a member of the American Bar Association and American Bar Family Law Section, the California Bar Association and California Bar Family Law Section, the Alameda County Bar Association, the Alameda County Family Law Association. Ms. Hooker currently serves on the Board of Directors for the California Young Lawyers Association (CYLA), Section of the CA State Bar.  She is a member and past President of the Eastern Alameda County Bar Association.

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