The London-founded law firm is betting big on growth in the US, and could shake up progression to retain top performersPhoto: Mike Kemp/Getty Images

Freshfields is mulling the introduction of a non-equity tier in its partnership as the Magic Circle law firm faces competition for talent from rivals.

A swathe of major law firms have introduced ranks of so-called non-equity partners in recent years to help them hold on to up-and-coming lawyers in a competitive market.