Milbank Sparks 2026 BigLaw Pay Race with New Associate Salaries
Milbank raises associate salaries, sparking swift matches by top BigLaw firms.
Why it matters: This new compensation data helps talent leaders, associates, and recruiters track pay trends critical to recruitment and retention in BigLaw amid the 2026 summer raise wave.
- Milbank increased associate salaries by $10,000 to $20,000, effective July 1, 2026.
- McDermott Will & Schulte, Hueston Hennigan, and Vartabedian Katz Hester Haynes quickly matched Milbank's new scale.
- Susman Godfrey topped the market with first-year associates earning $240,000.
- Hueston Hennigan offers summer bonuses up to $35,000 for associates billing 2,000 hours.
Milbank initiated the 2026 BigLaw associate compensation wave on June 2, announcing raises between $10,000 and $20,000, effective July 1, 2026, based on class year. This move has led to a rapid response from peer firms determined to remain competitive in attracting top legal talent.
McDermott Will & Schulte immediately matched Milbank’s scale, setting first-year associate salaries at $235,000 and eighth-year associates at $455,000. Similarly, Hueston Hennigan matched these numbers and added summer bonuses from $10,000 to $35,000 for associates on track to bill 2,000 hours.
On June 3, Vartabedian Katz Hester Haynes also aligned with the new scale, offering first-years $235,000 and eighth-years $455,000.
Notably, Susman Godfrey went beyond the new market rates, setting first-year pay at $240,000 and seventh-year associates at $450,000, signaling an aggressive approach to compensation.
Legal recruiters anticipate this year’s salary adjustments to be matched more quickly compared to 2024. Summer Eberhard of Lateral Link observed, "Unlike in 2024, where there was a little bit of hesitation... I think we’re going to see a lot more firms matching faster." Stephanie Biderman of Major Lindsey & Africa hinted at possible bonus announcements still to come.
By the numbers:
- $10,000-$20,000 — Milbank's associate raises depending on class year
- $235,000 — First-year associate salary at McDermott, Vartabedian Katz Hester Haynes
- $35,000 — Maximum summer bonus at Hueston Hennigan for high billing associates