In a major reversal from a recent Big Law trend, Kirkland & Ellis said it will consider giving lawyers equity shares nine years after they leave law school rather than 10, a move that could pile financial pressure on competitors.
Kirkland announced the change in an internal memo sent by the firm’s leadership committee on Wednesday and obtained by Bloomberg Law. A Kirkland spokeswoman confirmed the memo’s authenticity but declined to comment.
“Given the talent of our partnership and the increased responsibilities and experience gained in today’s environment, we believe that consideration for equity a year sooner is appropriate,” the ...