Law Students

Equaly Pay Day 2010

By jessie

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Today is Equaly Pay Day. It marks the point in 2010 when women and minorities have finally caught up to the 2009 salaries of majority men.  For those of you who are reading this and thinking this doesn't apply to you, keep reading.

The perception that women's work is worth less is pervasive in the legal profession.  Female associates in BigLaw firms are paid roughly 10% less than their male counterparts, controlling for hours worked, office location, and years of practice.  Among female partners the number is slightly worse. Among plaintiff's side and public interest lawyers the gap is wider still.

Imagine what's going to happen as more firms abandon lock-step and increase the portion of associate compensation determined by subjective evaluations. 

I grew up with a generation of women protected by Title IX and shepherded through youth in an atmosphere of relative parity. We entered the profession thinking, "If I do my work well, I will be successful." Think again.

And if you're wondering, "Is it really worth it to rock the boat and ask to be paid fairly for a few thousand dollars?" then chew on this one: many firms look at bonus and compensation evaluations from past years as a performance indicator for the remainder of your tenure at the firm. On the flip side, undervalued women have less reason to excel and advance. Retention and getting paid equitably are not separate issues. Failing to ask for equal pay now will haunt you for the rest of your career. 

That said, don't read this and march into your boss's office. These conversations are difficult and fraught with danger. Turn to your mentors and close friends to determine if there is a problem and how to approach it.

Full post as published by Ms. JD on April 20, 2010 (boomark / email).