In an intriguing departure from standard practices among the Am Law 200, DC powerhouse Williams & Connolly, ranked 89th with a gross revenue of $523,250,000, has set a new standard for associate pay effective from January 1 that comfortably exceeds the standard market scale. As reported by Above the Law, this move indicates a robust strategy towards gaining an edge in the pursuit of legal talent.
The details of the new pay reveal a significant increase across different experience levels. Associates from the Class of 2023 will receive $250K, a rise by $25K, while those from the Class of 2022 are being offered $290K, an increase by $55K. Class of 2021 and 2020 associates are set to earn $325K and $365K respectively, marking hikes of $65k and $55k. On the higher side, the firm is paying the Class of 2019, 2018, and 2017 associates $410K, $435K, and $450K respectively, resulting in differences of $45K, $45K, and $30K respectively. Associates from the Class of 2016 and earlier stand to make $455K, surpassing the scale by $20K.
This decisive move by Williams & Connolly signifies a bold response to the continuing war for talent among law firms. In a heated market where top-lawyer availability is scant, this step could potentially instigate similar shifts in payment scales across other firms at par.