Another firm shows that it is never too late to implement pay raises for its first-year associates. Pepper Hamilton announced that it has increased its starting salary from $125,000 to $145,000, effective in its Philadelphia; Berwyn, PA; Pittsburgh; Princeton; Washington, D.C.; and Wilmington offices. No decisions have been made regarding pay increases for higher-level associates or for other offices. Pepper Hamilton, along with Drinker Biddle & Reath, will raise salaries on Sep. 1; Dechert and Morgan Lewis & Bockius are already at $145,000, making four Philadlephia firms to reach that level. Some firms, such as Cozen O’Connor are still resisting. The firm has no plans to raise its starting salary above $125,000, and sees the pay increses as detrimental to the clients.
Source: www.nylawyer.com