Willkie Farr Matches Top Bonus Scale, Delivering Holiday Cheer to Associates

Willkie Farr & Gallagher has announced its 2025 year-end bonuses. The firm confirmed it will match the market-leading scale set by Cravath, Swaine & Moore. The payments are scheduled for December 31.

This move aligns Willkie with other elite law firms during the critical bonus season. It follows the firm’s strong financial performance last year.

Bonus Details and Firm Performance

The bonus scale matches the widely adopted Cravath structure. It also includes additional summer bonuses first introduced by Milbank. Associates will see significant year-end payouts as a result.

According to the firm’s internal memo, bonuses will be paid on the last day of the year. This timing ensures associates start the new year with a major financial boost. The scale rewards associates based on their class year.

Willkie Farr’s decision reflects its robust financial health. The firm reported gross revenue of $1.775 billion last year. Sharing this success with associates is a key retention strategy in competitive Biglaw.

Broader Market Impact and Trends

Willkie’s match reinforces the Cravath scale as the industry benchmark. It pressures peer firms to follow suit or risk falling behind in the talent war. This annual ritual sets compensation expectations across the sector.

The announcement signals continued profitability in high-end corporate law. Firms are willing to pay premium bonuses to secure top legal talent. This trend benefits associates but increases cost pressures on firm leadership.

For associates, this news validates their career choice at a top firm. It provides substantial financial recognition for a year of demanding work. The compensation helps offset the intense pressures of life in a major law firm.

Willkie Farr’s bonus match delivers a strong finish to the year for its legal teams. The firm’s alignment with the top market scale underscores its competitive position. This announcement sets a positive tone for the firm heading into the new year.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Cravath bonus scale?

It is the year-end bonus structure first announced by the law firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore. It typically serves as the benchmark that other major U.S. law firms match or exceed.

When will Willkie associates get their bonus?

The firm stated bonuses will be paid on December 31, 2025. This is a common payment date used by many firms during the bonus season.

Did Willkie Farr include summer bonuses?

Yes. The firm’s announcement included matching the special summer bonuses that were initially announced by Milbank earlier in the year. This adds to the total annual compensation.

How does this affect the legal job market?

When a major firm like Willkie matches the top scale, it increases pressure on other firms to do the same. It helps set compensation expectations for associates across the industry.

Why is Willkie able to pay these bonuses?

The firm had a very profitable year, reporting $1.775 billion in gross revenue. Strong financial performance allows firms to distribute significant bonuses to their associates.