Is it worth it to become partner at a law firm?

Asked by: Al Rath  |  Last update: December 13, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (37 votes)

For many, many BigLaw associates, partnership is the holy grail of a BigLaw career. Partnership represents the pinnacle of success, the reward for many, many years of hard (often grueling) work. And it's true that for many, if not most, of associates who aspire to partnership, the payoff will indeed be rewarding.

What is the benefit of being a partner in a law firm?

Benefits of being a partner: Financial rewards in the form of higher salary and, in some cases, a share of the firm's profits. Equity ownership in some cases, which offers higher potential for financial rewards. Ability to guide the firm's strategic direction, influence major decisions, and set operational policies.

Is it hard to make a partner in a law firm?

It takes anywhere from 2 to 10 years to make partner at an average law firm (sometimes longer). In order to be considered for a partner position (while working as an associate), you usually need to work very hard and contribute a lot to your firm's business.

Is being a partner a big deal?

Respect. Having 'Partner' on your business card brings a level of professional respect and status. In some ways, it is also a validation of your professional worth and merit. With that professional respect and kudos normally comes the rewards of owning a slice of the firm.

Do law firm partners get a salary?

All that being said, there is a general salary range most law firm partners can expect to make. According to a 2022 survey, law firm partner salaries averaged $1.12 million. The median salary for this position was $675,000.

How to become partner at a law firm

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How many years to make a partner at a law firm?

Some firms do make decisions about partnership after 7 years; however, many firms have partnership tracks based on 8, 9, 10 or 11 years.

Is being a partner prestigious?

A partner in a law firm, accounting firm, consulting firm, or financial firm is a highly ranked position, traditionally indicating co-ownership of a partnership in which the partners were entitled to a share of the profits as "equity partners".

Is it worth becoming a partner at a law firm?

For many, many BigLaw associates, partnership is the holy grail of a BigLaw career. Partnership represents the pinnacle of success, the reward for many, many years of hard (often grueling) work. And it's true that for many, if not most, of associates who aspire to partnership, the payoff will indeed be rewarding.

What happens if you don't make a partner at a law firm?

You could join another firm and even be partner there. You could start your own practice. You could practice law in a different setting -- for example, in-house at a corporation, nonprofit, or government agency.

What percent of lawyers make a partner?

“So, over time, roughly 30 percent have eventually made partner for this group. But that doesn't mean that on any given year, 30 percent of associates are going to make partner.” Zamsky estimates that half of associates hired by small firms eventually become partners. Their average salary might be $80,000 or $90,000.

How do law firm partners get clients?

According to the report, 59% of clients sought a referral from someone they know or have been in contact with, but 57% searched on their own through some other means—and 16% did both. These numbers are proof that times are changing, as not all clients rely on referrals to find a lawyer.

Is partner the highest position in a law firm?

Law firms are known for their hierarchical structure, with partners at the top and associates at the bottom. However, there are other positions within law firms that often cause confusion, such as the of counsel position.

What is the capital contribution of a partner in a law firm?

Capital contributions

Equity partnerships come with an obligation to purchase the partnership via a capital contribution to your firm. Depending on the firm, capital contributions generally range from 15 to 30 percent of the partner's annual profits.

How long does it take to make an equity partner?

Path to Partnership

The final leap to equity partner can take seven years or more.

What is the average age to make partner at a law firm?

The average age to make a partner in a law firm, investment bank, asset management firm, or private wealth management firm is around 35 to 38 years old. However, this can vary depending on the firm and the specific specialty. For example, it may take longer to make a partner in a large law firm than in a smaller firm.

Is becoming a partner a big deal?

It represents not just a significant achievement but also a transition into leadership, business development, and an entirely new set of responsibilities. However, as many find out, the path is fraught with challenges, lessons, and insights that are seldom discussed openly.

What is the average salary of a big law partner?

Average compensation for partners in larger law firms is $1.4 million, a record high that represents a 26% increase since 2022, according to a new survey by legal recruiting firm Major, Lindsey & Africa.

Is it a big deal to make partner at a law firm?

Senior law associates seeking to become partners can benefit in many ways while providing valuable guidance and direction to the firm. Partners are responsible for fostering strong client relationships, bringing in new business and voting in important business matters to improve a firm's performance.

How much does Big 4 partner make?

Big 4 Partner Salary

For reference, however, you can expect to make somewhere between $250,000 and $5 million a year. It's a lot of money but it also takes roughly 13 to 17 years to get there! Rest assured though, if you are a Big 4 partner, your salary will be considerable!

How hard is it to become a partner at a law firm?

Becoming a partner at a law firm is a major accomplishment, but it takes years of hard work and dedication. If you are a senior associate who is interested in making partner, here are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success: Develop your technical skills.

What is Mike's salary in Suits?

Financial Evaluation: Mike Ross starts with an estimated salary range of $100,000 - $150,000 as an associate. His jump to a junior partner almost doubles his earnings, and by the time he's a senior partner, he's potentially making up to $500,000.

How much do top lawyers make?

Highest-Paid Types of Lawyers
  • Patent attorney: $180,000.
  • Intellectual property (IP) attorney: $162,000.
  • Trial lawyer: $134,000.
  • Tax attorney: $122,000.
  • Corporate lawyer: $115,000.
  • Medical lawyer: $113,000.
  • Real estate lawyer: $98,000.
  • Family lawyer: $93,000.