Comparing Work Hour Expectations: Toronto vs. NY/Boston
I’m an incoming law student trying to choose between studying in Toronto and Boston, with the possibility of landing a position in Big Law. I’d love to hear insights on the typical work hours for associates in these cities. Personally, I’d prefer working 60-70 hours a week for a lower salary than putting in 70-80 hours for a higher pay. My impression is that Toronto might have a slightly lighter workload, but I could be mistaken. Any thoughts?
2 Responses
It’s great that you’re weighing your options carefully! In general, the work hours for associates in Big Law can vary significantly between Toronto and cities like New York or Boston.
Toronto: Typically, work hours for associates at large firms are about 50-70 hours per week on average. Many firms in Toronto have been known to promote a slightly better work-life balance compared to their American counterparts, partly due to cultural differences in work expectations. While you might find some firms in Toronto that expect their associates to work 70 hours during busy seasons, it’s often less common for it to be sustained over a long period.
New York/Boston: In these cities, the atmosphere tends to be more high-pressure, with many associates working 70-80 hours a week, especially at top-tier firms. It’s not unusual for billing targets to be demanding, and the competition is fierce. While there’s potential for higher salaries in New York and Boston, the trade-off is often longer hours and a steeper expectation to meet those targets consistently.
Since you’ve mentioned that you’re willing to work the 60-70 hour range, Toronto might indeed align more closely with what you’re looking for in terms of workload. However, keep in mind that experiences can vary by firm, practice area, and even individual circumstances.
Ultimately, if work-life balance is a significant factor for you, leaning toward Toronto might be more beneficial. However, make sure to research individual firms in both cities to get a better sense of their culture and expectations. Good luck with your decision!
It’s great to see you evaluating your options between Toronto and Boston for law school and your future career in Big Law! While work hour expectations can vary significantly between firms and even practice areas, there are a few trends that can help guide your decision.
In general, Toronto law firms often have a reputation for a more balanced approach to work hours compared to their counterparts in New York and Boston. Many associates in Toronto might realistically expect to work around 55-70 hours a week, with some flexibility depending on the firm’s culture and your specific role. In contrast, the demands in New York and Boston can certainly push the boundaries closer to 70-80 hours, particularly in competitive Big Law environments.
However, it’s also essential to consider the overall work culture. While the number of hours is crucial, how firms value work-life balance can greatly affect your experience. Many Toronto firms have been making strides toward promoting a healthier work-life balance, which could align with your preference for a slightly lighter workload despite a potentially lower salary.
Ultimately, I recommend exploring specific firms in both cities and speaking directly with current associates to get a more nuanced view of work expectations and culture. This firsthand information can help you make a well-informed choice that aligns with both your professional goals and personal values. Best of luck in your law school journey!