After Sullivan announced its bonuses, it’s jellybean spring lineup, Quinn Emanuel has announced theirs and it’s putting Sullivan in perspective. This is Sullivan’s layout (data from Above the Law).

Class of 2011 — $1,000
Class of 2010 — $1,000
Class of 2009 — $2,500
Class of 2008 — $2,500
Class of 2007 — $2,500
Class of 2006 — $5,000

According to an email sent to an Emanuel employee, they will receive bonuses ranging from $2,000 to $30,000, which is not too distant from last year’s stretch of $2,500 to $20,000.

  

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It makes sense, after all, that Quinn wouldn’t be wimpy, what with their revenue up 31 percent since last  year. As one of the law firms doing the best, it will be difficult for other firms to match their generosity.

Nevertheless, when it comes to recruiting, each firm will want the buzz to be positive. Hefting heavy bonuses will do nothing but good for the successful Quinn, whereas Sullivan’s won’t be wooing the new possibilities with their less than stellar giving.

Whether other firms will take Quinn’s lead, or whether they take Sullivan’s, remains to be seen, though it would be wiser to station somewhere in between, unless the firm is somewhere near Sullivan’s success and has the means to be generous.