Big Law is a term used to describe the largest and most successful law firms in the United States. These firms are usually headquartered in major cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, and they have multiple offices, including international ones. Big Law firms are defined by the number of lawyers, size of revenue, and number of offices. They tend to offer comprehensive legal services in corporate law practice areas, rather than focusing on a specific niche, like personal injury or criminal law. Clients of Big Law firms are typically large corporations, investment vehicles, family officers, or wealthy individuals who appreciate the clout and one-stop-shop approach that these major firms provide.
Working in Big Law can be challenging, and it requires a significant investment of time and money to become a lawyer. However, it can also be rewarding, as Big Law firms offer excellent training, substantive experience in red-meat legal work, and the cultivation of valuable personal relationships. Big Law firms pay well, with starting salaries at a big firm that could be $215,000 or more.
In summary, Big Law refers to the largest and most successful law firms in the United States, which offer comprehensive legal services in corporate law practice areas and have clients that are typically large corporations, investment vehicles, family officers, or wealthy individuals. While working in Big Law can be challenging, it can also be rewarding, with excellent training, substantive experience, and high salaries.
