In the latest Vault 100 rankings for 2026-2027, Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP has maintained its position as the most prestigious law firm in the United States for the 11th consecutive year. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz continues to hold the second spot, underscoring its enduring influence in the legal sector. ([prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vault-law-releases-2026-2027-rankings-for-its-top-100-law-firms-best-law-firms-by-region-and-best-law-firms-by-practice-area-302736138.html?utm_source=openai))
The top ten firms in the Vault 100 rankings are:
- Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP
- Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz
- Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
- Latham & Watkins LLP
- Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
- Kirkland & Ellis LLP
- Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
- Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
- Milbank LLP
- Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Notably, Gibson Dunn has achieved a unique distinction by being the only firm ranked in the top ten for both Prestige and Best Law Firms to Work For categories, reflecting its strong reputation and positive workplace environment. ([gibsondunn.com](https://www.gibsondunn.com/gibson-dunn-only-firm-ranked-in-vaults-top-10-for-both-prestige-and-best-law-firms-to-work-for-categories/?utm_source=openai))
Milbank LLP has also made significant strides, securing the ninth position in the overall prestige rankings. The firm is recognized as the top firm in the Project Finance and Clean Tech/Renewable Energy categories and is among the top ten in several other practice areas, including Banking & Financial Services and Mergers & Acquisitions. ([milbank.com](https://www.milbank.com/en/news/milbank-recognized-among-top-ten-most-prestigious-law-firms-in-2026-vault-rankings.html?utm_source=openai))
These rankings are based on a comprehensive survey of over 20,000 law firm associates, conducted between October 22, 2025, and January 23, 2026. The survey evaluates firms on various factors, including peer reputation, quality of work, and overall workplace satisfaction. ([prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vault-law-releases-2026-2027-rankings-for-its-top-100-law-firms-best-law-firms-by-region-and-best-law-firms-by-practice-area-302736138.html?utm_source=openai))
The consistent performance of these firms highlights their enduring commitment to excellence and their influential roles in shaping the legal landscape.