[rosegold]

Agree with much of the above with some exceptions: secretaries create documents for partners and senior level associates. There is usually a bank of standard provisions that the secretary pulls from. Partner A says pull the standard template plus x and Y provisions. Secretary prepares and Partner reviews. On the billing, you may see preparation charged at the secretary's hourly rate with review at the partner's rate. Lawyer's have plenty of accountability from their clients. Corporate clients hire outside firms to review billings. Each year corporations review their outside counsel and decide if they want to find new counsel. Big Corp invites big law firm X, Y and Z in for a "dog and pony show". Competition between law firms is fierce.