This article responds to an inquiry from a partner in a law firm who felt she was treated unfairly because she deserved to be the designated billing partner for a new client matter, which she originated from a firm client that was originated by another partner. This was a particularly significant issue for this partner because the designation of “billing attorney” is an important criterion in her firm’s compensation system.
The partner who receives the call from a new client and who will perform or supervise the performance of the work on that file may be the most appropriate person to serve as the billing partner. However, the decision may not be as clear-cut when a firm has a team-oriented approach to business development and client service efforts.
