Major Biglaw Firm Delays Start Date For Some Incoming Associates - Above the Law
Briefly

A&O Shearman has delayed start dates for some members of the class of 2025 to January, providing impacted associates with a salary advance repayable over ten months. This situation arises as the firm navigates its recent merger and seeks to manage financial implications. Historically, such delays serve as indicators for potential layoffs or austerity measures in law firms. The commitment of $125 million towards pro bono initiatives for conservative causes is notable and has been met with discontent from some associates, making the timing of these changes concerning for incoming lawyers.
A&O Shearman has agreed to a $125 million pro bono initiative to conservative causes while pushing back the start dates for some associates in the class of 2025.
Incoming associates at A&O Shearman face delayed start dates to January, receiving a salary advance repayable over ten months to mitigate lost income.
Historically, pushbacks in associate start dates signal potential austerity measures or layoffs, raising concerns amid the firm's recent merger.
The firm is attempting to balance its financial obligations with managing talent, but the delay leaves anxious new associates in limbo before starting their legal careers.
Read at Above the Law
[
|
]