We consider the articling program our primary source for future associates and partners. Most of the current lawyers at Bell Baker articled here. Generally, hiring decisions are based on whether or not we feel that a student will be a good “fit” with us, rather than on how busy we are at the time of the student's call. Decisions on hire back are generally made approximately two months before the end of the articling period. We have a policy of moderate, controlled growth. Because of the stability of our client base and our success in developing new clients, as well as our initiative to pursue new and expanding areas of practice, we expect our pattern of growth (and the resulting opportunities for advancement) to continue.