Bonus season is in full swing, and A&O Shearman, a leading figure in the Biglaw league, is not holding back. The firm, a result of the merger between Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling, announced it will be matching the market-leading Cravath scale, rewarding its associates and counsel across the Americas with substantial year-end bonuses. In 2024, A&O Shearman reported a staggering revenue of $3.7 billion, securing its spot as the fourth largest on the Global 100 list.

The lucrative bonus scale at A&O Shearman is set to bolster the earnings of its dedicated legal professionals who have met or exceeded the firm’s stringent hourly requirements. Not only will standard bonuses be awarded, but those who significantly surpass expectations will receive an "enhanced year-end bonus," adding a competitive edge to the firm’s compensation package.

This announcement is part of a broader trend where top law firms align their bonus structures with the Cravath scale, further ignited by Milbank’s introduction of summer bonuses earlier this year. A&O Shearman’s commitment to maintaining these standards underscores its position as a frontrunner in the industry, striving to attract and retain top legal talent.

As the bonus season progresses, remember that such updates often come from tips within these prestigious firms. If your firm announces or matches bonus scales, you can contribute to the broader legal community by sending information via text or email. Such contributions help everyone stay informed about the latest compensation trends.

For those eager to stay updated with real-time notifications on such announcements, subscribing to ATL's Bonus Alerts ensures you receive news as it happens. This service, widely utilized by legal professionals, is invaluable during the bustling bonus season.

As the year draws to a close, the legal community watches closely as firms continue to unveil their bonus structures, setting the stage for a competitive and rewarding environment for law associates and counsel. Congratulations to all at A&O Shearman, and here’s to a prosperous end of the year!