<p>How right you are, UCLAri. Remember the bloodletting that began at the big firms nationwide a few years ago? Being a partner ain't what it used to be. Heck, being an associate at a 'white shoe' law firm ain't what it used to be. The associate track to partner is now longer, in some cases years longer. And in other cases, firms have created "non-partner track positions," wherein you can remain with the firm as long as they are happy with your work, but you're just another salaried employee like the receptionist and the paralegal. I don't know if bankers or MBAs have it better though.</p>