The past four weeks have been among the most active recruitment periods of the year, with many law firms pushing to present offers before year-end. Activity has remained resilient well into December, defying the usual seasonal slowdown.
Looking ahead to January, we are already seeing clear signals of renewed momentum. Hiring restrictions introduced earlier in 2025 are beginning to ease, and firms are preparing for a broader return to market across levels — from junior associates through to partners.
If the conversations we’re having, and the data we’re tracking, continue to hold, 2026 is shaping up to be a significant year for lateral movement and strategic growth.
So what can lawyers expect in the year ahead? Below, our regional experts share their outlooks across key global markets.
California Outlook
Michael McGinnis, J.D. — Director, Los Angeles
"Hiring demand remains strong across the U.S. for both partners and associates. The highest levels of demand are concentrated in Corporate M&A / Private Equity, Capital Markets, Commercial Litigation, Data Privacy, IP Litigation, and Labor & Employment.
At the associate level, fifth-year associates are emerging as the most sought-after cohort going into 2026. For partners, firms are prioritising individuals who can demonstrate a portable book of business of $3m+.
Looking ahead, we expect Q1 2026 to be red hot. January and February will be the key window to meet firms, and I urge any attorney who is considering a move to make the time to assess their options during this window, I think you will be excited by some opportunities that will be on the table."
Finance, M&A and Deal Flow
Dom Duchesne — Principal Consultant, New York
"Banks are betting big on 2026, underwriting record volumes in anticipation of an LBO and M&A comeback. As deal flow accelerates, we expect strong demand for borrower- and sponsor-side attorneys, particularly across finance-heavy practices in New York."
Private Equity and Funds
Jonathan Taylor — Director, London
"Private Equity continues to dominate the market here in London, driving both M&A and finance activity. As a result, we’re seeing sustained demand for structured debt and fund finance lawyers, alongside continued hiring across transactional funds and secondaries.
If inflation has peaked — and if we see interest rate cuts toward the end of 2025 — we expect PE-driven M&A recruitment to carry strongly into 2026."
Secondaries and Compensation Trends
Stefano Barbagallo — Director, New York
"Likewise in New York, we’re predicting a robust 2026 for Private Equity and Secondaries. A late surge in secondaries placements in 2025 reflects a growing talent pool and sustained demand following another record-breaking year, with volumes expected to surpass $200bn.
Strategic hiring will remain strong, supported by record compensation packages as firms compete to keep pace with increasing deal volume and speed."
Asia Outlook
Sonia Taylor — Director, Asia
"In Hong Kong, IPO hiring remains strong across both U.S. and Hong Kong ECM teams. M&A and Private Equity hiring is also on the rise, particularly at the mid to senior associate level, alongside increased activity in Disputes, Arbitration, and Financial Services Regulatory roles.
In Singapore, Projects teams are busy again, while several U.S. firms are actively rebuilding and restructuring their M&A and PE teams."
Australia Market Snapshot
Misha McKenzie — Senior Consultant, Sydney
"Corporate, Banking & Finance, Litigation & Disputes, Tax, and Construction & Projects are set to remain the most active practice areas, continuing the momentum we’ve seen throughout 2025. Salary will remain a defining factor in hiring decisions, with top-tier firms expected to compete aggressively to secure talent. Compensation levels are likely to stay elevated — and in some cases push beyond historic benchmarks — reflecting both sustained workflow and firms’ willingness to invest in high-performing lawyers.
Finance is expected to remain red hot in 2026. With the local talent pool remaining tight, firms may continue to broaden their searches internationally, increasingly targeting lawyers from New Zealand and London to meet sustained demand."
Personal Branding and In-Person Connection
Rebecca Adlington — Global Marketing Manager
"In 2026, I believe investment in genuine human connection will prove to be one of the most effective long-term strategies across professional services. As digital noise continues to increase, and AI continues to develop (and scare us) we’re already seeing a clear shift back toward in-person community-building. I'm talking anything from networking events and industry meet-ups to smaller, more intentional gatherings over coffee.
For lawyers in particular, those who are able to build an effective online personal brand, paired seamlessly with a strong in-person presence, will stand out in an increasingly competitive market."
Looking Ahead
Taken together, the signals across global markets point to a year defined by renewed confidence, selective expansion, and strategic hiring. While conditions will vary by region and practice area, the common thread is clear: firms are preparing for increased deal flow.
For lawyers, this presents a valuable opportunity. If you’re considering your next move in 2026, Sonder’s consultants are available for discreet discussions and market insight across all major legal hubs.
Wishing our network a restful holiday period and a strong start to the year ahead.
