‘Tis the season for Biglaw bonus announcements, and Proskauer Rose has officially joined the fray. Today, the firm declared its year-end bonuses for 2025, aligning with the industry's emerging standard scale.

But let’s rewind to last year's bonus season at Proskauer, which was notably dramatic. In 2024, the firm unexpectedly imposed a retroactive hours requirement for bonuses. Associates who missed the mark by even a mere three hours found their bonus hopes dashed, receiving not a penny. In a swift response to the backlash, which included a hastily called virtual town hall mere minutes after media reports surfaced, Proskauer established a clear 2,000-hour benchmark for future bonuses.

An associate from last year expressed skepticism about the firm's promises of transparency, hinting at a lingering distrust among colleagues. However, this year's announcement shows no changes to the hourly requirements, perhaps indicating a move toward stabilizing expectations.

The official memo details that bonuses will be disbursed by December 24, 2025, to associates who are both employed and in good standing as of that date, and who have met the firm’s performance criteria for their seniority level. The memo also notes provisions for pro-rated bonuses for associates on reduced schedules, those on approved leaves, or who joined the firm post-January 1, 2025. Additionally, associates in London will see their bonuses adjusted from pounds to sterling, a nod to ongoing financial practices post-Brexit.

As the festive season approaches, Proskauer associates who meet these criteria can look forward to a financial boost just in time for the holidays. It’s a season of both relief and celebration for those who have successfully navigated the firm’s requirements.

Congratulations to all the Proskauer associates poised to receive their year-end bonuses. Here’s hoping that the season brings not only financial rewards but also a reaffirmation of trust and transparency within the firm.