Support Staff feeling the [economic] burn

Yesterday, I asked whether how or when the slowing economy would hit Vegas firms. East coast firms are already laying off real estate and financing divisions of the firm, and there are predicitons that the lower-billing associates will soon be cut.

Well, apparently the economy has had an impact on staff at firms: the support staff. Rather than letting go of associates or lowering associate bonuses, some Vegas firms are asking support staff to carry the brunt of the economic downturn.

Word on the street is that management at some Vegas firms have put a hiring freeze on support staff and are choosing not to issue support staff bonuses in 2007. In the meantime, associates and partners receive their bonuses on time.

Not a smart business move by management. Every firm attorney knows that without skilled support staff, the associates would be worthless. Most of them have no idea how to draft an Answer or file a Complaint. I wonder how hard they can squeeze the secretaries and paralegals before they look for new work?

Let me know if you're job is cutting back on perks or laying off associates and/or support staff: nevadalegal@gmail.com