How Much Do Lawyers Make in London UK?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to pursuing a career in law, one of the most important considerations is salary. Lawyers are known for earning high salaries, and London is one of the most lucrative cities for lawyers in the UK. In this article, we’ll explore how much lawyers make in London and what factors impact their earnings.

What is the Average Salary for Lawyers in London?

According to data from Glassdoor, the average salary for a lawyer in London is £67,000 per year. However, this figure can vary widely depending on a number of factors including experience level, area of specialization, and type of employer.

Experience Level

As with any profession, experience plays a significant role in determining how much a lawyer can expect to earn. Junior lawyers with less than three years of experience typically earn between £25,000-£40,000 per year.

Mid-level lawyers with five to ten years of experience can earn between £50,000-£90,000 per year. Senior lawyers with over ten years of experience can earn upwards of £100,000 per year.

Area of Specialization

The area of law that a lawyer specializes in can also impact their earning potential. Lawyers who work in corporate law or finance tend to earn higher salaries compared to those who work in public interest or family law. For example, according to Glassdoor data, corporate lawyers in London can expect to earn an average salary of £87,000 per year compared to family lawyers who earn an average salary of £49,000 per year.

Type of Employer

The type of employer that a lawyer works for can also impact their earnings. Lawyers who work for large international firms or multinational corporations tend to earn higher salaries compared to those who work for smaller firms or non-profit organizations. For example, according to Payscale data, lawyers who work for the Magic Circle firms (a group of top five UK-based law firms) can earn upwards of £100,000 per year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lawyers in London can expect to earn high salaries, but their earnings are impacted by a variety of factors including experience level, area of specialization, and type of employer. While the average salary for a lawyer in London is £67,000 per year, those with more experience and who work in certain areas of law or for specific types of employers can earn significantly more.