As Big Law enters a new epoch in competition, they’re reaching deeper into their toolboxes to attract and retain talent. And one area of focus, recruiters, analysts and firm leaders say, is the compensation structure for high-performing laterals.

Specifically, law firms are becoming more flexible in how they recruit lateral partners by offering fixed amounts of compensation as well as shares or units in the firm. Some are also shifting between the two structures for their lateral approach, or using a blend of both for the same lateral.