(Image via Getty)
Biglaw firms across the world have enacted cost-cutting measures as a consequence of the coronavirus crisis, but many of them are willing to dedicate special bonuses to attorneys who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in terms of “extraordinary performance” in the billable hours department. Staff members, on the other hand, were the first to be furloughed during the economic downturn, and instead of the promise of bonuses for exemplary performance are seeing their discretionary bonus pools halved or eliminated entirely.
Biglaw staff members may help firms run efficiently, but they’re often forgotten about when it comes to financial rewards. To be quite frank, it’s depressing, but one firm has remembered these important team members in a very special way.
Orrick recently announced that its staff members, worldwide, would be receiving a tax-free $1,000 wellness stipend for their hard work during the pandemic. Here’s an excerpt from the memo that was sent by chairman Mitch Zuklie:
[T]hrough all of the challenges 2020 has brought, there’s been one thing I, our lawyers, and our clients could count on and that’s YOU. You are the best in the business. This year has asked more of all of you than ever before and you came through with grit, dedication, innovation, teamwork and grace. …
We hope this mid-year wellness stipend takes some stress off for you. On behalf of all of our lawyers, thank you for your contributions to our team.
(Flip to the next page to read Orrick’s memo in full.)
It’s important that Biglaw firms remember to remain focused on employee wellness — especially in difficult times like these. Kudos to Orrick for being kind to its staff members when so many other firms seem to be neglecting them.
What is your firm doing to recognize its staff members during the pandemic? Please email us or text us (646-820-8477) to let us know. Thanks.
Staci Zaretsky is a senior editor at Above the Law, where she’s worked since 2011. She’d love to hear from you, so please feel free to email her with any tips, questions, comments, or critiques. You can follow her on Twitter or connect with her on LinkedIn.