Surveys: What's new for 2010

Valuable feedback from our law firm participants has resulted in the following enhancements to the 2010 surveys

Billing rate & associate salary survey plus (BRASSplus): US

The BRASSplusprovides law firms with the information they need to better understand the level of rate discounting the legal industry is experiencing during this challenging economy.

The 2010 BRASSplus mid-year release has been expanded to include billing rate statistics for the six-month period - 1/1/2010 to 6/30/2010. This additional level of reporting will be a first gauge at the level of discounting participants are incurring in 2010 as a result of client pressure. Partner demographics and compensation data was added in the 2009 mid-year release of the survey and in this release will be included in a new report focused exclusively on partner & associate compensation (PAC).

Download a one-page overview of the 2010 BRASSplus.

Cultural awareness & inclusion survey (CAIS)

Developed in 2009, the CAIS is designed to measure the rich diversity found within the law firm industry. This year we added two ‘spotlight’ areas that focus on the recruitment and advancement initiatives directed towards self-identified LGBT individuals and persons with a disability.

The CAIS is divided into two sections:
  • Section 1: Detailed gender and minority statistics for timekeepers in the following areas: headcount, utilization, partner promotions and terminations.
  • Section 2: Firmwide diversity efforts in the following areas: leadership, initiatives, recruitment, retention, client management and our two ‘spotlights’ areas.
Participants can choose to participate in one, or both, sections of the survey.

Download a one-page overview of the 2010 CAIS.

Law firm statistical survey (LFSS)

The PwC Law Firm Statistical Survey (LFSS) has been recognized as a leader in providing operational and profitability metrics to law firms since 1957.

During this challenging economy, many law firms struggle to manage the bottom line through appropriate cost-cutting initiatives. Results from this survey will provide detailed information and trends relative to staffing levels and expense management to allow your firm to maintain a competitive advantage.

In addition to the core profitability metrics offered annually, the 2009 LFSS provides participants with information identified as key areas influencing a firm's growth in the new economy.
  1. Client concentration
  2. Bank borrowings
  3. New partner capital buy-in
  4. Management of non-equity partners
Download a one-page overview of the 2009 LFSS.