New York’s legal elite are poised to hike year-end bonuses in the wake of Sullivan & Cromwell’s $30,000 (£15,844) package, as associates in the US’ legal capital prepare for their first major pay rises in three years.

Partners within New York’s premier firms have told Legal Week they are currently still setting their rates, but the indications are that Sullivan’s peers are almost certain to match the firm’s recentlyannounced awards.