A&O Shearman has delayed the start dates for some of its incoming US first-year associates until January.
Affected associates are also being offered a salary advance.
A&O Shearman has pushed back the start dates for a group of its incoming first-year associates in the US to January.
The move, first reported by Above the Law, affects part of the 2025 first-year class - equivalent to NQs in the UK - who are also being offered a salary advance.
First-years have historically had two start dates across the year and, in line with market norms, the firm has always offered incoming associates the option of a salary advance, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Post-merger transition
The delays come during a period of post-merger transition for the firm. Its transatlantic merger went live in May last year, creating one of the world’s largest law firms by revenue.
But the consolidation has also come with growing pains. A significant partner restructuring later in the year saw around 10% of equity partners cut, as the firm moved to a single all-equity model. Since then, the firm has seen a number of high-profile partner exits.
In June, an 11-lawyer structured finance team left for Latham & Watkins, followed by news that top financial regulation partner Barney Reynolds would join Sullivan & Cromwell. This month, funds partner Phil Baynes moved to Weil, a New York litigation duo left to set up their own boutique, and Agnès Dunogué - co-head of US securities and shareholder litigation - joined Freshfields in New York.
According to data from recruiter Edwards Gibson, A&O Shearman lost 15 London partners in the first half of the year - more than any other major City firm.
Join 10,000+ City law professionals who start their day with our newsletter.
The essential read for commercially aware lawyers.
