The big law pay scale in the United States starts at $225,000 for first-year associates and increases to over $435,000 by the eighth year, excluding bonuses. This scale, known as the Cravath scale, is followed by many top law firms and is adjusted periodically to stay competitive.
Introduction to Big Law Compensation
Big Law firms pay first-year associates a base salary of $225,000, with senior associates earning over $435,000 before bonuses. This standardized compensation model is called the Cravath scale, adopted by many top-tier firms in major U.S. cities. These figures make Big Law compensation among the highest in the legal industry.
Biglaw salaries are structured to attract top legal talent from top law schools like Harvard, NYU, and Columbia. The scale ensures consistency across leading firms and reflects rising market competition for skilled associates.
Big Law Pay Scale (2025)
| Class Year | Base Salary | Typical Annual Bonus | Total Compensation (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Year (2024 JD) | $225,000 | $20,000 | $245,000 |
| 2nd Year | $235,000 | $30,000 | $265,000 |
| 3rd Year | $260,000 | $57,500 | $317,500 |
| 4th Year | $285,000 | $75,000 | $360,000 |
| 5th Year | $310,000 | $90,000 | $400,000 |
| 6th Year | $330,000 | $105,000 | $435,000 |
| 7th Year | $350,000 | $115,000 | $465,000 |
| 8th Year | $375,000 | $115,000 | $490,000 |
These salaries follow the big law salary scale used by firms like Cravath, Milbank, and Davis Polk, which helps them remain competitive and retain the best law students.
The Standard Big Law Pay Structure
The Cravath scale sets the standard base salary for biglaw associates across class years. First-year associates start at $225,000, with salaries increasing annually up to $375,000 by year eight. This lockstep model aligns pay strictly by graduation year, not individual performance.
Most major law firms adopt this structure to stay aligned with their peer firms, maintaining a competitive edge in attracting and retaining young lawyers. These figures apply primarily in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.
The biglaw salary scale excludes bonuses, which can increase total earnings significantly. Summer bonuses, signing bonuses, and discretionary year-end bonuses often supplement base compensation.
Bonuses in Big Law: Market, Special, and Performance-Based
Annual bonuses in Big Law range from $20,000 to $115,000 and are based on class year and meeting billable hour thresholds. These are often referred to as market bonuses and follow a separate bonus scale updated periodically.
Many top legal firms also offer:
- Special bonuses for high performance or retention
- Signing bonuses for laterals or law clerks
- Summer bonuses for exceptional summer associates
Bonus eligibility is tied to meeting billable hour targets, typically around 2,000 hours per year. Associates who meet or exceed this threshold qualify for full bonuses, while those who fall short may receive reduced or no bonus at all.
Firms like Davis Polk, Milbank, and Skadden have led increased bonuses in recent years, sometimes providing larger bonuses in response to market conditions or intense demands.
Cost of Living and Regional Pay Differences
Big Law salaries are highest in major cities like New York, San Francisco, Florida and Los Angeles, but can be lower in secondary markets. Although many firms follow the same salary scale, regional adjustments may apply.
For example:
- NYC and SF offices usually offer full Cravath scale.
- Texas and Midwest offices may offer slightly less.
- Smaller firms in these markets may pay well below market.
High costs in major cities can offset higher pay. For example, NYC associates may pay over $3,000/month in rent, plus taxes and transportation. These expenses can reduce take-home pay by 30–40%, depending on location and benefits like 401(k) contributions and health insurance premiums.
Despite this, most Big Law firms do not adjust pay for hybrid work models or remote setups.
Big Law vs. Midsize and Boutique Firms
Midsize and boutique firms often offer lower salaries but better work-life balance compared to Big Law. While top boutiques like Wachtell or Quinn Emanuel may pay above the Cravath scale, most smaller firms offer base salaries between $130,000 and $200,000.
| Firm Type | Base Salary (Typical) | Bonus Potential | Work Hours (Avg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Law | $225,000+ | $20k–$115k | 60–80/week |
| Midsize Firm | $130,000–$180,000 | $5k–$30k | 50–65/week |
| Elite Boutique | $240,000+ | $50k–$150k | 60–80/week |
Top boutique firms may pay more but also expect higher billable hours, especially in litigation. Midsize firms, while offering more predictable hours, may not match Big Law in total compensation or long-term financial rewards.
Trends and Changes in Big Law Pay (2020–2025)
Big Law salaries have increased steadily since 2020, driven by market competition, associate attrition, and client demand. The legal field has seen salary increases nearly every year since 2021. In particular:
- 2021–2022: Multiple firms issued mid-year raises and special bonuses.
- 2023–2024: Base salary adjustments to combat inflation and retain top talent.
- 2025: Some firms testing AI tools to reduce workload and maintain competitive pay without extending work hours.
The push for higher salary is partly due to legal technology, which improves efficiency, and rising expectations from both associates and clients. Artificial intelligence tools like contract automation and e-discovery are changing how billable hours are calculated, which may impact future performance metrics.
Firms must now balance offering more money with managing well-being and attrition rates.
Conclusion & Takeaways
Big Law offers the highest compensation in the legal profession, with a clear pay scale, generous bonuses, and high base salaries—but it comes with intense demands and long hours.
Key factors for law students and junior lawyers to consider:
- Cravath scale remains the benchmark for top legal salaries.
- Bonuses depend on billable hour thresholds and individual performance.
- Cost of living and taxes significantly reduce net income.
- Smaller firms may offer lower pay but improved work-life balance.
- Niche expertise and strong credentials can unlock above-market pay at elite boutiques.
A fulfilling legal career depends on more than just salary—long-term career growth, well-being, and fit with firm culture are just as important as financial success.
Typical Questions (FAQs)
Below are typical questions about the big law pay scale.
How do Big Law salaries compare to in-house legal roles after five years?
Big Law associates earn significantly more than in-house lawyers after five years. A fifth-year associate typically earns $400,000+ including bonuses, while in-house roles at the same level offer $180,000–$250,000. In-house jobs offer better work-life balance, but come with a lower salary scale.
Are there any Big Law firms that pay above the Cravath scale, and what does it take to get those offers?
Yes, some elite firms pay above the Cravath scale, especially in high-cost markets or specialized practices like litigation and tech law. These firms hire top talent with federal clerkships, advanced degrees, or niche expertise.
What hidden costs or deductions can significantly reduce a Big Law associate’s take-home pay?
High tax rates, benefits deductions, and cost of living can cut net income by 30–40%. Examples include:
– Federal and state taxes
– Health insurance premiums
– 401(k) contributions
– Rent and transport in major cities
– Bar dues and professional expenses
How does missing billable hour targets affect bonuses and long-term compensation in Big Law?
Missing billable hour targets often results in reduced or no bonus. Many firms have strict performance expectations. Repeated shortfalls can hurt promotion prospects, partnership track, and even lead to termination.
