<p>I understand that in order to become a partner you must first be an associate, but was wondering what the difference between the two is (in terms of hr/wk, workload, $$$ etc). Any help will be appreciated.</p>
<p>Totally depends on the firm, but as a general rule at big firms, partners work just as hard as associates, or nearly as hard, but their work is different. There isn't necessarily a huge income boost in the first year you make partner; there's growth over time.</p>
<p>The major difference is that an associate is an employee and is paid a salary. Generally, a partner shares in the profits (and losses) of the firm and has a say in its management.</p>
<p>Law firms vary significantly in how they approach their hiring and partnership decisions. Making partner in many firms is an art, not a science, and a little bit like the complex process of college/law school admissions.</p>
<p>There are different kinds of associates in some law firms. Some associates are on a partnership track while others are basically in permanent associate status. In other firms, there are no permanent associates so if you don't make partner after a period of time (and that can be anywhere from 3 years to 10 years or more depending on the firm), you have to find another job.</p>