Last Thursday, we asked you if deferred incoming associates were all set to start working. With a lot of associates scheduled to start in January, firms that extend the deferment in December might need a visit from Christmas ghosts.
Well, a few incoming associates received a large “bah, humbug” from Mayer Brown. The firm is asking people to “voluntarily” extend their deferral to October 2010.
On the positive side, the decision will only affect a few of Mayer Brown’s incoming class.
An explanation from the firm after the jump.
A spokesperson from Mayer Brown furnished Above the Law with this statement:
Mayer Brown has asked 18 of the 119 members of its incoming class of associates to consider a voluntary extension of their start date beyond their currently scheduled start date. Those who agree to an extended deferral will start in October 2010 or an earlier date agreed upon by the associate and his/her practice group. The deferral request was made to all incoming associates in a limited number of specific practices in certain offices. We do not yet know how many associates will choose to extend their deferral.
During the extended deferral period, associates will continue to be paid $5,000 per month and receive health insurance and other applicable benefits. The firm also will assist them in securing opportunities for gaining meaningful legal experience during that time.
Tipsters who were asked to extend their deferral add these details:
Every deferred associate in corporate in the Mayer Brown Chicago office was pushed back to October 2010 instead of January 2010.
At least it is a voluntary situation. If you really want to start earning your Biglaw salary, go ahead and decline the deferral extension offer.
Earlier: Open Thread: Are Deferred Associates Ready to Start Work?
