Lawyer Pay
These boutique firms top bonuses given to associates by BigLaw firms

Several elite boutique law firms are offering above-market bonuses to their associates this year. (Image from Shutterstock)
Several elite boutique law firms are offering above-market bonuses to their associates this year.
Associates at New York-founded litigation boutique firm Selendy Gay will receive base bonuses ranging from $17,250 to $132,250, depending on how long they’ve been with the firm, Law.com reports.
Bonuses at Elsberg Baker & Maruri, a commercial trial, litigation and arbitration firm in New York, will start at $26,250 for the associate class of 2025 and top out at $201,250 for the class of 2015 and earlier, Law.com also reports.
BigLaw firms typically offer associates year-end bonuses that range from $20,000 to $115,000, depending on their class year, according to Law.com. They also offer “special bonuses” between $6,000 and $25,000.
Selendy Gay and Elsberg Baker & Maruri said their associates will additionally receive these special bonuses, Law.com reports.
Other firms announced that they will offer above-market bonuses to some associates, depending on certain factors.
One of these firms, Texas-based health care boutique firm Gjerset & Lorenz, will offer base bonuses that match the BigLaw bonus scale for associates who bill 1,900 hours, Law.com reports. These bonuses will range from $21,000 to $140,000, depending on class year.
Associates at Gjerset & Lorenz who meet higher hourly billing thresholds will receive larger bonuses, potentially up to $355,000, Law.com also reports.
Write a letter to the editor, share a story tip or update, or report an error.
