Women, Private Practice and Billable Hours

Abstract

Women have been entering law schools in record numbers over the past two decades. In fact, they currently outnumber men in many law schools in the United States and Canada. However, they face several barriers to full integration in law firms. As a result, many of them are leaving in droves. In this article, the authors examine one of the issues—the billable hours pay system—that prevents them from becoming partners in law firms. After critically examining the role and impact of the billable hours’ culture on women lawyers, and drawing on the total rewards strategy used in some organizations, the authors offer modest recommendations for changing the pay system.