A spokesperson told Lawyers Weekly on Wednesday that the firm would continue to recognise exceptional performances but in a more focused way than in previous years.

Strong-performing lawyers would be rewarded with a salary increase, while support staff who had performed exceptionally would primarily receive bonuses, said the spokesperson.

Law firms to implement a salary freeze this year include Freehills, Mallesons Stephen Jaques, Clayton Utz and Corrs Chambers Westgarth.

- Sarah Sharples