Associate Deferrals May Only Defer Firms' Problems

By Julie Zeveloff

Law360, New York (May 14, 2009, 12:00 AM ET) -- For law firms looking to cut costs and stave off overstaffing in a slow market, deferring the start dates for incoming associates may seem like a quick fix. But down the road, deferral programs could cause major woes for firms and new lawyers alike.

Already, a slew of top firms, including Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP, Proskauer Rose LLP and King & Spalding LLP have implemented mandatory deferrals, pushing back start dates for incoming associates by six months or more.

Others, including Cravath Swaine & Moore...
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