What do the biggest law firms in the US really look like behind the billion-dollar headlines? It’s not just about size—it’s about scale, speed, structure, and how well they adapt to change.
Some of these firms run on pure performance. Others bet big on collaboration and tech. Some are decentralised. Others double down on IPOs and private equity. But all of them? They’re shaping the future of global legal business—right now.
In this list, we’re not just ranking them by numbers. We’re diving into the mindset, culture, revenue, and recent wins that make these 10 names impossible to ignore in 2025.
Whether you’re tracking trends, choosing a firm, or just curious about how these giants move, this breakdown will show you what actually matters today—and what’s coming next.
Here are the 10 largest law firms in the US currently
| Law Firms | Headquarters | Notable Practice Areas |
| Kirkland and Ellis | Chicago | Corporate, Litigation, IP, Restructuring |
| Latham & Watkins LLP | Los Angeles | Antitrust, M&A, White-collar, Finance |
| DLA Piper | Chicago | Corporate, M&A, IP, Regulatory |
| Baker McKenzie | Chicago | M&A, Tax, Labor, International |
| Dentons | No HQ | Broad, Multinational Services |
| Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP | New York | M&A, Litigation, Corporate |
| Sidley Austin | Chicago | Regulatory, Transactional, Litigation |
| White & Case | New York | Cross-border Transactions, Disputes |
| Morgan Lewis | Philadelphia | Labor, Corporate, Litigation |
| Gibson Dunn | Los Angeles | Litigation, Appellate, Corporate |
1. Kirkland and Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis stands out for its intense, performance-focused culture. They always reward top performers fast (like many do, if not, you are at the wrong place), both in roles and compensation. The work is demanding, no doubt, but the payoff is significant. Fresh lawyers are in charge of major responsibilities early, making it a magnet for the ambitious.
While the firm’s pace is relentless, its push for diversity and pro bono work gives it a broader edge. However, work-life balance remains a challenge often mentioned.
In early 2025, Kirkland posted $8.8 billion in global revenue—a 22% jump from 2023. It remains one of the largest law firms in the US, with profits per equity partner hitting $9.25 million. The global team now includes over 3,800 lawyers.
In deals, few matched Kirkland’s 2024 performance. It advised on $427 billion worth of transactions, including the $36 billion Kellanova–Mars deal, one of the year’s biggest.
The firm also expanded to Frankfurt and brought in five new London partners by February 2025. It promoted 151 attorneys internally and took on pro bono work for Donald Trump’s causes, highlighting its unique position in both legal and political circles.
2. Latham & Watkins LLP
Latham & Watkins focuses on a culture of teamwork, respect, and a shared global viewpoint. There’s no rivalry between offices. Instead, teams work seamlessly across geographies—delivering one voice, one standard, everywhere. It’s ambitious, but balanced.
The firm is also deeply committed to inclusion, wellness, and growth. Professional development is baked into the system. While the pace is high, so is the empathy, making it one of the most stable yet competitive environments.
In 2025, the firm reported $7 billion in global revenue—a 23% jump. That puts Latham among the largest law firms in the US. Profits per equity partner climbed 29%, hitting $7.1 million. Lawyer headcount grew modestly, but revenue per lawyer shot up to nearly $2 million.
In deals, Latham ranked second globally in private equity transactions for 2024. Its energy practice alone pulled in $2 billion. While it doesn’t boast a single defining win, Latham’s role in over 1,100 public company advisories says it all.
London led much of the charge, with revenue soaring 25% to $850 million. IPO leadership, smart investments, and strategic vision defined their year—and it’s just the beginning.
3. DLA Piper
DLA Piper works with a culture where everything is kept grounded in collaboration, creativity, and a strong focus on professional and personal development. The environment feels human—lawyers describe it as warm and people-first. Talent growth is not just encouraged, it’s expected.
Despite stepping back from some diversity reporting in 2025, DLA Piper still highlights inclusion as part of its identity. The firm remains committed to giving individuals a voice and space to grow.
In April 2025, the firm posted $4.2 billion in global revenue—a 10.7% rise from the year before. While not the highest earner, DLA Piper remains one of the largest law firms in the US and globally. Growth has been steady, with revenues consistently staying between $3.5 to $4 billion over recent years.
Although DLA Piper doesn’t point to one major victory, its global influence is clear. From complex cross-border cases to massive M&A transactions, the firm is always involved at the top level.
In 2025, it promoted 65 new partners across major regions and expanded its innovation programs, addressing modern legal topics from mental health to AI ethics in law.
4. Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie isn’t just global—it’s built that way. Teams collaborate across borders, but every market has its own voice. That’s the strength.
The culture? Inclusive. Career paths? Flexible. People are urged to think on a global scale, but to focus their efforts locally. Balance matters here. So does innovation.
By 2025, the firm hit $5.1 billion in estimated revenue. Still among the largest law firms in the US. In Spain alone, they grew 15% year-over-year. €115 million in revenue.
Biggest win? Not one. But major deals define the firm’s scale. Like the sale of Iberdrola’s Mexico unit. Or Six Senses Ibiza. All complex, all global.
2025 also marked 60 years in Spain. Chambers USA gave them 96 lawyer rankings. Legal 500 followed with Tier 1 spots in Cyber Law and Trade.
They’re not chasing headlines—they’re building deep. With strategic hires in Finance and Competition, they’re getting sharper, not just bigger.
5. Dentons
Dentons doesn’t have a global HQ. That’s the point. It runs on a decentralized model, giving power to local teams—but with global backing. That makes cross-border work smoother. More flexible. More local, without losing the big-firm edge.
The firm focuses hard on inclusion and accessibility. It’s not just talk—they’ve been recognized for it. Tech and sustainability matter here too. So does making legal delivery smarter.
The vibe? Supportive. Lawyers say they get to work on big things early. And they’re backed to grow across borders.
As per the published records in March 2025, the revenue for 2023-24 is $2.72 billion. In UKIME alone, Dentons hit £280.5 million—a 6% jump.
It ranked 13th globally by revenue. So yes, still one of the largest law firms in the US and worldwide.
No single “biggest case ever.” But over 600 Chambers Global 2025 rankings—including 136 new or improved ones—tell the real story.
In 2025, Dentons pushed hard on tech-led legal solutions. Its teams are already navigating new laws tied to digital transformation. The firm is evolving fast—and globally.
Key Takeaways
Let’s be honest—just because a firm made it to the list of the largest law firms in the US doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you.
Some are built for speed and scale. Others thrive on niche work or deep relationships. But big doesn’t always mean better. It depends on your need—litigation? private equity? regulatory guidance? That’s the real filter.
Don’t get caught up in the revenue race. Look into how they actually deliver. Their values, flexibility, and relevance to your matter should matter more.
Yes, this list gives you scale. But your choice should be personal. The best law firm is the one that fits your case, your industry, and your expectations.
So read the numbers—but read between the lines too. The right call isn’t always the loudest name.
Also Read: Redefining Legal Education: How Law Schools Are Shaping Future-Ready Lawyers
