Biglaw

Not Surprising, But Still Disappointing: Another Biglaw Firms Denies Associates Fall Bonuses

Like so many firms, they're waiting until year end for all bonuses.

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Biglaw is, by and large, little “c” conservative. And, as far as compensation goes, that usually means following the leader (read: Cravath). Most times that works out well for associates, as Cravath is generally a market leader. But when it comes to COVID-19 fall appreciation bonuses, well, Cravath has taken a wait-and-see approach — despite others like Davis Polk, Milbank, and Sullivan & Cromwell moving forward. But Cravath is still Cravath, and lots of firms have taken their lead on fall bonuses.

So, it really isn’t a surprise that White & Case has made a statement that there will be no fall bonuses for associates (available in full on the next page). But it is still upsetting, as tipsters say:

No fall bonus at W&C. No surprise given the firm is never a leader on comp. If they do eventually give a bonus, I’m sure this will allow them to make it subject to minimum hours (like the usual end of year bonus) and delay paying until February 2021 with the usual bonus.

This is a gut punch for people in practice groups that are drowning in work right now. I, and many of my colleagues, have already hit (and well exceeded) hours requirements for this year. We were just told that banking, restructuring, and M&A are having banner years.  So essentially all of that cash goes to partners. I’ve spoken with many overworked associates whose motivation is utterly gone now.  I’m not holding my breath that the Firm will make good at time for bonuses early next year.  Truly disappointing.

For what it’s worth, White & Case notes they will be taking the fall bonuses into account when it’s time for year-end bonuses. But it doesn’t sound like associates are holding their breath.

Please help us help you when it comes to bonus news at other firms. As soon as your firm’s bonus memo comes out, please email it to us (subject line: “[Firm Name] Bonus”) or text us (646-820-8477). Please include the memo if available. You can take a photo of the memo and send it via text or email if you don’t want to forward the original PDF or Word file.

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headshotKathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).

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