Law Firm Partnership in Flux: SurePoint Unveils Survey Results on Partner Satisfaction

August 26, 2025 [Austin, TX] – SurePoint Technologies, the leading provider of legal software and intelligence solutions to mid-sized law firms, today released findings from its first-ever Partner Satisfaction Survey, offering a rare and revealing look into the experiences and expectations of equity and non-equity partners at U.S. law firms. The survey gathered insights from more than 400 law firm partners across Am Law 200 and mid-sized firms. The results shed light on evolving partnership models, partner compensation trends, transparency in advancement, and firm culture—at a time when the legal industry is undergoing rapid structural transformation.

The survey results spotlight risks related to partner disenfranchisement. While the non-equity partner role is often positioned as a prestigious milestone, offering higher billing rates and increased responsibilities, the reality for many attorneys in this category is more complex. For some, the role represents a genuine step toward equity partnership. For others, it becomes a long-term, static position with unclear pathways for advancement, limited influence over firm decisions, and compensation that does not always reflect their contributions.

“This survey confirms what many in legal leadership have long suspected: the rapid expansion of the non-equity tier is reshaping not only firm economics, but also attorney expectations around growth, influence, and inclusion,” said Olivia Mockel, Chief Brand & Market Strategy Officer, SurePoint. “This data provides an essential roadmap for law firms navigating the delicate balance between profitability and partner satisfaction. Firms that foster transparency, equitable advancement, and meaningful engagement will be the ones best positioned to attract and retain top-tier talent long-term.”

Key Findings from the 2025 Partner Satisfaction Survey:

• Compensation Satisfaction Is Mixed: While 48% of non-equity partners are satisfied with their pay, 27% are dissatisfied and 25% remain neutral—underscoring concerns about transparency and perceived inequity.
• Unclear Advancement Paths Fuel Mixed Sentiment: Only 22% of non-equity partners say the path to equity is “very clear.” While 42% view the role as a steppingstone to equity, 17% are content remaining non-equity, with many expressing frustrations over limited influence, stalled advancement, and broken promises.
• Non-Equity Roles Often Long-Term or Permanent: 68% of non-equity partners at Am Law firms remain in the role for 4+ years, while 83% at mid-sized firms do the same—including 35% who expect to remain indefinitely.
• Lack of Training and Influence Undermines Partner Readiness: 57% of all partners received no formal training in leadership or business skills upon promotion, and only 25% of non-equity partners report meaningful involvement in firm decisions—highlighting gaps in preparation and governance inclusion.
• Client Visibility Is Inconsistent, Retention Risks Remain: While only 43% of partners say clients are aware of their tier status, 90% of non-equity partners report their client relationships are at least somewhat portable—raising concerns about loyalty and lateral movement.

This report is part of SurePoint’s broader commitment to arming law firm leaders with actionable insights to strengthen performance, retention, and client relationships. Download the full white paper, 2025 Partner Perspectives: What Law Firm Leaders Need to Know About Satisfaction, Advancement, and Firm Culture.

About SurePoint® Technologies

SurePoint powers Firm Performance with embedded intelligence, helping mid-sized law firms operate, compete, and grow in a rapidly evolving legal market. Through a cohesive legal technology ecosystem that unifies the business and practice of law, our configurable Practice, Finance, and Growth Solutions streamline operations—from timekeeping, billing, and payments to CRM, talent insights, and business intelligence. By driving operational simplicity, financial strength, and sustainable growth, SurePoint enables legal professionals to focus on what matters most: serving clients, leading teams, and creating lasting impact.

Learn more: www.surepoint.com

Contact

Jen Lapierre
Communications Consultant
media@surepoint.com