Top U.S. law firms offer lawyers some of the highest salaries in the country. A report from BCG Attorney Search highlights firms with high pay, large bonuses, and millions in partner earnings.
These rankings show how firms compete for top talent. They also help lawyers, students, and recruiters compare pay and job options.
Learn more from this report: The Highest-Paying Law Firms in the United States: Complete Associate and Partner Compensation Rankings 2025
Kirkland and Ellis Leads Partner Pay Rankings
Kirkland & Ellis ranks first for partner pay. Partners earn an average of about $9.25 million a year, according to the report.
Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz ranks second. Its reported average partner pay is about $9.04 million.
Other top firms include Quinn Emanuel, Sullivan & Cromwell, Latham & Watkins, and Skadden.
However, not every partner earns these amounts. Pay depends on firm profits, client work, and personal results.
Equity partners often share in firm profits. Non-equity partners usually earn a salary and may receive bonuses. So, a partner’s title does not tell the full story.
BigLaw Associate Salaries Start at $225,000
Associate pay is also a key part of law firm hiring. According to BCG Attorney Search, many top firms offer first-year associates a base salary of $225,000.
Pay often grows with experience. For example, eighth-year associates can earn about $435,000 in base pay. Bonuses can raise their total earnings.
Some top firms offer even more. Cravath, Kirkland & Ellis, and Quinn Emanuel report total associate pay of up to $575,000.
Meanwhile, Skadden and Davis Polk also offer strong pay packages. However, actual earnings depend on experience, results, and firm rules.
Bonuses Boost Attorney Pay
Year-end bonuses can add thousands of dollars to an associate’s income. Many BigLaw firms link bonus amounts to years of experience.
Some firms also offer special bonuses. These extra payments can raise total annual pay.
Still, lawyers should check each firm’s current pay rules before accepting a job. Recruiters can use these figures to compare offers and guide job seekers.
What the Rankings Mean for Legal Careers
High pay attracts many lawyers. However, salary is only one part of a good legal career.
Lawyers should also consider work hours, training, and chances for promotion. Location matters, too. Living costs can reduce the value of a high salary.
Furthermore, firms need more than high pay to keep good lawyers. Strong mentors, fair workloads, and clear paths to promotion also matter.
Conclusion
BCG Attorney Search’s 2025 rankings show the high earning potential at top U.S. law firms. Kirkland & Ellis and Wachtell lead the reported partner pay figures.
Meanwhile, associate pay can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. However, lawyers should look beyond salary when choosing a firm.
Comparing pay, bonuses, and career growth can help lawyers make better choices. The right job should support both financial goals and long-term success.
Learn more from this report: The Highest-Paying Law Firms in the United States: Complete Associate and Partner Compensation Rankings 2025
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