Write-downs reduce recorded time before invoicing, typically by the billing attorney, or reduce invoiced amounts through client or auditor adjustment. Both reduce realization.
Reasons include guideline violations, budget overruns, and discretionary reductions.
Alternative Names:
Write-Down, Fee Reduction
Why it Matters?
Distinguishing firm-initiated from client-imposed write-downs is what makes the metric actionable, since they indicate different problems. Voluntary reductions signal work performed beyond what the matter warranted or inefficiency the billing attorney recognized. Client-imposed reductions signal guideline compliance failures. Tracking both by cause identifies whether the issue is scoping, staffing, or recording discipline.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between firm and client write-downs?
How should write-downs be tracked?
