Associate Bonus Watch: Discontent At Wilson Sonsini?

How are bonuses looking at Wilson Sonsini? Some associates aren't happy....

WILSON SONSINI GOORDICH & ROSATI — MEMORANDUM — FY14 BONUSES AND FY15 STEP INCREASES

To: WSGR Associates, Of Counsel, and Counsel

Cc: Members

From: Doug Clark and Jack Sheridan

Date: January 27, 2014

Re: FY14 Bonuses and FY15 Step Increases

We are pleased to announce year-end merit bonuses, as well as associate step increases for the new fiscal year beginning on February 1, 2014.

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Merit Bonuses

As you know, merit bonuses reflect both an attorney’s individual performance and the firm’s overall financial performance. Consistent with previously established criteria, the merit bonus program provides for hours-based awards to eligible attorneys who achieved 1,900, 2,100, or 2,400 hours over the course of the 2013 calendar year. In addition to the hours-based component, attorneys also may receive a discretionary amount based on their work quality and overall contribution to the firm.

For the purpose of determining hours-based awards, bonus-eligible hours include chargeable hours recorded, pro bono hours, and hours charged to accounts for the firm’s legal services, as well as approved shadowing hours and a cumulative total of up to 40 hours charged to Knowledge Management activities, attorney recruiting interviews, or preparing and presenting internal training courses that qualify for CLE credit. The measurement period is January through December 2013.

In accordance with the firm’s practices, hour requirements and awards will be adjusted on a pro rata basis for attorneys who started mid-year, worked part time, or who were on a leave of absence for any part of the year.

This year’s total bonuses range from a maximum of $10,000 for the class of 2012 to a maximum of $60,000 for the class of 2004 and more senior.

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Associate Step Increases

Step increases will take effect on February 1 according to the FY15 associate salary schedule shown below.

All attorneys will receive an individual email from Human Resources tomorrow confirming their FY15 salary, and for those receiving a bonus, the bonus amount. Bonuses will be paid on January 31.

In closing, we want to let you all know how much we value our dedicated and talented attorneys, and thank you for your continued contributions to the firm.

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