When people talk about six-figure jobs right out of school, “Big Law” is often at the top of the list. Known for its prestige, fast pace, and hefty compensation, Big Law refers to the largest and most elite law firms in the United States—those that often appear in the Vault 100 or Am Law 100 rankings.
The Big Law salary structure is a major reason many law students aim to land jobs at these firms. But what does “Big Law salary” really mean in today’s economy? How much do these lawyers make, and what are the trade-offs?
Let’s break down the numbers, explore the real picture behind the paycheck, and answer common questions about Big Law salaries.
What Is a Big Law Firm?
“Big Law” refers to the largest and most prestigious corporate law firms, often with hundreds or thousands of lawyers, international offices, and a roster of major corporate clients. These firms typically pay their associates according to a lockstep salary scale, with salaries increasing by seniority.
Big Law Salary Overview (As of 2025)
As of mid-2025, the standard Big Law salary scale in major markets like New York, D.C., and Los Angeles looks like this for associate attorneys:
| Associate Year | Base Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1st Year (Class of 2024) | $225,000 |
| 2nd Year | $235,000 |
| 3rd Year | $260,000 |
| 4th Year | $290,000 |
| 5th Year | $320,000 |
| 6th Year | $345,000 |
| 7th Year | $370,000 |
| 8th Year | $400,000 |
On top of these base salaries, many firms also pay annual performance or year-end bonuses, which can range from $15,000 to over $150,000, depending on the year and the firm’s profitability.
How Bonuses Work in Big Law
Bonuses are not guaranteed but are expected at top-tier firms. There are generally two types:
- Year-End Bonuses: Based on your associate class and whether you hit the firm’s billable hour requirements.
- Special or Discretionary Bonuses: Sometimes paid in profitable years or to reward exceptional performance.
Some firms offer sign-on bonuses to top recruits fresh out of law school, especially those from top 10 schools or with federal clerkships.
Factors That Influence Big Law Salaries
- Firm Size and Prestige: Top-tier firms like Cravath, Wachtell, Latham & Watkins, and Kirkland & Ellis usually lead the way in salaries.
- Market Location: Salaries in New York and San Francisco are typically higher than in smaller legal markets.
- Practice Area: Some fields like mergers & acquisitions or private equity command higher compensation.
- Billable Hours: Associates are expected to meet a billable hour target (commonly 1,900–2,200 hours/year). Not meeting this may affect your bonus or even job security.
- Clerkship Experience: Federal judicial clerks may receive bonuses of $50,000–$75,000 or more upon joining a firm.
The Trade-Offs of a Big Law Salary
While the paycheck is attractive, it comes with significant trade-offs:
- Long Hours: 60–80 hours per week is typical.
- High Pressure: Big clients, tight deadlines, and constant availability can lead to burnout.
- Limited Work-Life Balance: Many associates struggle to maintain a personal life.
- High Attrition Rate: Most associates leave within 3–5 years for in-house, government, or smaller firms.
FAQs About Big Law Salary
Q1: Is Big Law salary really worth it?
A: Financially, yes—especially for paying off law school debt quickly. But personally, it depends on your tolerance for long hours, stress, and corporate culture.
Q2: How can I get a job in Big Law?
A: Most Big Law firms recruit from top law schools like Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Columbia, and NYU. Strong grades, journal membership (like Law Review), and relevant internships also help.
Q3: Do Big Law salaries increase every year?
A: Usually, yes. Most firms follow a lockstep system where your salary increases automatically with seniority—if you’re retained. However, market conditions can impact salary adjustments.
Q4: What are bonuses like in Big Law?
A: In good years, associates can earn five-figure or even six-figure bonuses. These vary by class year and firm performance, and sometimes include special one-time payouts.
Q5: How many years do lawyers stay in Big Law?
A: The average is 3 to 5 years. After that, many lawyers leave for lifestyle reasons or move to in-house counsel roles with better work-life balance.
Q6: Can I make partner in Big Law?
A: It’s possible, but very competitive. Most associates don’t make it. Becoming a partner typically takes 8–10 years, with high performance, strong business development, and internal firm politics playing big roles.
Q7: What’s the difference between Big Law and Mid-Law salaries?
A: Mid-Law firms generally pay less—often between $100,000 and $160,000 for entry-level associates. The hours may be more manageable, but the trade-off is lower pay and sometimes slower promotion tracks.
Q8: Are Big Law salaries sustainable long-term?
A: For firms with strong financials, yes. However, economic downturns can lead to layoffs, reduced bonuses, or slower salary growth, as seen in past recessions.
Final Thoughts
A Big Law salary is one of the highest-paying career paths for recent graduates in any field. But it comes with intense demands, a fast-paced environment, and a level of pressure that isn’t for everyone. For those who thrive in high-stakes, high-reward settings, it’s a fast track to financial security and elite career opportunities.
Whether you’re a law student aiming for the top or just curious about the world of high-powered attorneys, understanding Big Law salaries is key to grasping the realities of the modern legal market.
