In the world of high-stakes legal battles, there's a new headline that's turning heads, not just for landmark case victories but for the staggering sum of money being doled out in bonuses. Kellogg Hansen, a litigation titan, has recently set a precedent that might leave even the most generous Biglaw firms feeling a bit parsimonious.

The firm, known for topping the Biglaw salary charts, has now announced special bonuses that substantially outstrip what's typically seen in the market. This move isn't entirely out of the blue for those familiar with Kellogg Hansen's history of hefty year-end rewards, but the figures involved are still nothing short of breathtaking.

So, what does an "above market" special bonus look like? While associates at Biglaw firms might see bonuses ranging from $6,000 to $25,000, Kellogg Hansen's associates are set to receive bonuses starting from $30,000 for first-year associates to a whopping $60,000 for of counsel. This scale, as outlined in an internal email from Michael Kellogg, is sure to make a significant impact on the wallets of these high-flying legal professionals:

- Associate Year 1 (joined the firm in 2024) – $30,000 - Associate Year 2 – $35,000 - Associate Year 3 – $40,000 - Associate Year 4 – $45,000 - Associate Year 5 – $50,000 - Associate Year 6 – $55,000 - Of Counsel – $60,000

These figures come on top of the already substantial year-end bonuses Kellogg Hansen is known for, which are eagerly anticipated and set to be announced soon.

The legal community watches these developments with keen interest, and Kellogg Hansen's strategy might prompt other firms to reevaluate their own compensation packages to retain top talent. As the industry buzzes with discussions about these bonuses, Kellogg Hansen stands out not just for their legal prowess but as a leader in associate compensation.

For those interested in staying updated on this and other compensation news, resources such as Above the Law provide timely updates and insights directly influenced by reader tips and contributions. As the landscape of legal compensation evolves, it remains to be seen how other firms will respond to this bold move by Kellogg Hansen. Congratulations to everyone at the firm, and watch this space for more updates as they come!