More than half of law firms are using exceptional bonuses to retain top talent during the pandemic, according to new research from a London-based recruitment specialist.

Of the firms surveyed by Totum Partners, 51% have already made exceptional bonuses over the past 16-18 months, while 21% are planning to do so in the next six months.

The survey secured responses from a range of global law firms asking their decision-makers an extensive range of questions on compensation packages awarded to “chiefs” and “directors” across business services functions.