Hi all,
I’ve just started working into a PE team and I’m struggling with a mid-level associate I work closely with.
During a recent live matter, they were clearly overworked and would complain constantly throughout the day. I was also doing 14–15 hour days (and it was my first deal at this level), but whenever I said I needed more time to finish something, I’d get sarcastic messages like “you’re busy? lol.” They would chase relentlessly, copy the partner on emails to make a point, and pile on more work without much regard for feasibility.
I initially put it down to stress and the system rather than the person. But even now that the matter has closed, the dynamic hasn’t improved. I’m expected to turn documents within hours, while comments from them can sit for a week. I’m chased on low-priority points with no real time pressure, and I’m increasingly being asked to handle admin tasks that would usually go to law clerks, even though I’m busy on other legal work.
I’ve tried distancing myself and working with others, but they continue to send minor queries and tasks so it’s hard to disengage. I’ve started documenting some of the more inappropriate messages because the tone can be demeaning. At this point, I feel anxious every time their name appears in my inbox and I’m prioritising their work out of fear rather than urgency.
Has anyone dealt with something similar as a junior? How did you set boundaries or escalate (if at all) without damaging your reputation?