Key facts
- Kirkland & Ellis has over 1,000 nonequity partners.
- The firm's nonequity partner model allows for faster lawyer promotion.
- Other law firms are adopting similar two-tier partner structures.
- Many of Kirkland's nonequity partners secure equity roles elsewhere.
Kirkland & Ellis has redefined the legal industry's partnership structure by establishing a substantial tier of over 1,000 nonequity partners. This model, once viewed skeptically, has proven to be a successful business strategy, enabling the firm to promote lawyers more rapidly than many competitors. The desirability of these nonequity partner roles is high, with recruiters actively seeking out individuals who hold the title, even without equity status. The success of Kirkland's approach has led to a shift in perception, with other major law firms now emulating this two-tier system. Data suggests that many lawyers who are nonequity partners at Kirkland go on to achieve equity status at other firms, highlighting the pipeline effect of this model.