What distinguishes a staff attorney from a partner in a law firm?

The distinguishing factor between a staff attorney and a partner in a law firm is that staff attorneys do not share ownership in the firm. Staff attorneys are typically employed by the firm to perform legal work and provide support, but they do not have any equity stake or ownership interest in the firm. This employment structure allows firms to have attorneys focused on specific legal tasks without the shared financial and managerial responsibilities that come with partnership.

Partnership in a law firm generally entails shared decision-making, investment in the firm, and a stake in the profits generated by the firm. In contrast, staff attorneys are usually compensated with a salary and may focus on billable hours or specific cases without the implications of ownership rights. Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping the different roles and responsibilities within a law firm structure.