In the dynamic landscape of Biglaw firms, the evolution of partnership structures has become a focal point. As numerous high-profile firms adopt a two-tier partnership system incorporating nonequity partners, Ropes & Gray, a heavyweight in the legal industry and the #7 firm in the country by gross revenue, has elected to maintain its traditional single-tier partnership model for the foreseeable future.

This summer stirred the legal community when rumors emerged about Ropes & Gray possibly introducing a nonequity partnership tier. This speculation was set against a backdrop of major firms like Cravath and Paul Weiss pioneering such changes, which started a domino effect among top law firms seeking competitive edges and varied pathways for lawyer retention and promotion.

Despite the industry's shift, Ropes & Gray seems to have halted its flirtation with restructuring. In a recent interview with the American Lawyer, Dan Stanco, a policy committee member at Ropes, described the idea of adding a nonequity tier as "premature." For now, the firm is sticking to its all-equity partnership model, a decision that underscores its commitment to fostering collaboration and unity among its partners.

Ropes & Gray’s decision is notable not just for its deviation from the emerging norm but also for what it signifies about the firm's internal culture and strategic priorities. In 2024, the firm boasted a significant $4,989,000 in profit per equity partner, highlighting the financial health and operational success under its current model.

The trend among America’s largest law firms, as reported by Bloomberg Law, suggests a shift towards a majority of nonequity partners by the end of 2025. This shift raises questions about the long-term implications for firm culture and the legal profession’s traditional pathways to success.

As Ropes & Gray charts its course, the legal industry will be watching closely. Will the firm eventually yield to the pressures and advantages of a two-tier system, or will its commitment to a single-tier partnership stand as a testament to its unique approach to law firm management? Only time will tell.

For updates on this and other developments in the legal sector, stay tuned. If your firm is planning changes to its partnership structure, share your insights with us via text at 646-820-8477 or email at [email protected].

[Read More: Ropes & Gray Sticking to Single-Tier Partnership For Now, Aiming For Better Collaboration](https://www.law.com/americanlawyer/2025/09/08/ropes--gray-sticks-to-single-tier-partnership-aiming-for-better-collaboration/) [American Lawyer]