the depth of our partner bench

13:59 Oct 9, 2012 

I have seen this term used in a non-legal, corporate context.

13:38 Oct 9, 2012 

It's odd because in law the judge's podium is often referred to as "the bench" e.g, "approach the bench." So I almost wondered if it was a sly way of saying "We have good relations with the judges, wink wink..." This may be an auxiliary meaning they want to keep vague, almost subliminal, while touting their depth of experience using "bench strength" which is a sports term meaning several non-starting players are also very strong, capable competitors...

10:30 Oct 9, 2012 

sorry - may have OTHER connotations.

10:14 Oct 9, 2012 

My suspicion is that it is commercial law's way of talking (up) their team of partners by using the 'to sit on the bench' terminology but it may have connotations.

10:09 Oct 9, 2012 

Thanks gallagy and Simon. It is a law firm.

And, how about that "bench strength"? Does that "bench" include only partners, or also lawyers?

10:03 Oct 9, 2012 

Difficult to say here. Is this a financial advising company or are they legal? who are their "clients"?

07:52 Oct 9, 2012 

More context:
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2012 has been a tough year for everybody. That said, we’ve been in the market longer, we’ve got great ***bench strength***, and a strong pipeline of deals, so unlike some firms we were able to continue with quite a lot of work, rather than look for fresh business.