Associate Life

Training - AGG places the highest priority on the training and development of new attorneys. From the outset, associates are encouraged to accept responsibility and become fully involved in various aspects of the firm's practice and administration. A significant part of associate training is 'on-the-job' experience guided by partners and senior level attorneys. We also encourage participation in professional seminars and continuing legal education classes. In addition, new associates will join practice groups aligned with their interests. All attorneys are encouraged to actively participate in the regular meetings of the practice group where discussions on new legal developments and strategies for expanding and improving our services to clients are explored.

Evaluations - In addition to day-to-day feedback, associates receive two formal evaluations each year that incorporate assessments from all attorneys with whom the associate worked.

Associates' Committee - The associates elect an associates' committee that is currently comprised of five individuals from various practice areas in the firm. This committee meets periodically to address topics of interest and represents all associates to the management committee concerning any questions or issues.

Partnership Track - Historically, AGG had an 8½ year partnership track. In 2000, we adopted a more flexible plan that will allow associates who fulfill the requirements for partnership at an accelerated rate to become a partner in a shorter time period.

Associates Promoted to Partnership
2004 – 5
2005 – 4
2006 – 4
2007 – 6

Compensation - The base salary for incoming associates is currently $130,000. Those completing judicial clerkships receive a $5,000 bonus, plus one year's credit toward partnership. Discretionary bonuses are awarded in recognition of exceptional work performance, client service, business development or pro bono activities.

Billable Hours - The billable hour requirement for associates is 1900 annually.

Department Assignments - We attempt to place incoming associates in their desired practice area, depending on our current hiring needs. If an associate desires to transfer to another practice area, the firm will make every effort to accommodate such requests.

Benefits - Our attorneys enjoy a full range of benefits, including medical insurance, short/long-term disability, life and dependent life insurance, health and dependent care spending accounts (FLEX), 401(k), parental/maternity leave, Bar review course fees, State Bar dues and CLE.