December 10, 2025

In an impressive move that underscores its successful inaugural year, Dunn Isaacson Rhee, a boutique law firm founded in May, is setting new standards in the legal industry by offering its associates bonuses that dwarf those of Biglaw firms. The firm emerged after key figures Karen Dunn, Bill Isaacson, Jessica Phillips, and Jeannie Rhee left Paul Weiss due to disagreements over the firm's direction under Trump administration pressures.
Bloomberg Law reports that associates at Dunn Isaacson Rhee are now reaping the rewards of their firm's audacity and success. The bonus structure starts at $21,000 and scales up to a whopping $140,000 based on seniority. Additionally, associates will receive a special bonus of $35,000, bringing the total potential payout to a staggering $175,000 for senior associates. This generous compensation package significantly outstrips the maximum $140,000 offered by traditional Biglaw firms.
The firm's rapid ascent and ability to offer such substantial bonuses reflect not only its financial health but also a strategic positioning that attracts top talent disillusioned by the conventional Biglaw model. This development could herald a shift in how law firms compete for and retain the best legal minds, prioritizing not only compensation but also values and organizational culture.
Congratulations are in order for everyone at Dunn Isaacson Rhee as they celebrate this landmark achievement. It's a clear indicator that sometimes, breaking away from tradition can lead to unparalleled success and innovation in even the most established industries.
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