In some ways, The American Lawyer‘s A-List is like a decathlon for law firms, a contest that tests their strengths in a variety of exacting ways, although we’ve yet to ask firms to clear a high jump. The factors that go into the tenth edition of this annual ranking—revenue per lawyer, pro bono, associate satisfaction, and diversity—aim to identify firms that represent the legal industry’s all-around best. Financial strength is important, but we also want to applaud firms that are committed to serving the less fortunate, and to creating a diverse and healthy work environment.


Previous The A-List coverage :: 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

THE FEATURE

Familiar Faces
Most of this year’s A-List firms are familiar faces, including first-place finisher Hughes Hubbard, while Akin Gump makes its debut.