Lawyer Salary UK: How Much Do Law Professionals Earn?

The UK legal sector employs over 150,000 solicitors and many more support staff. Salaries vary widely by role, location, and type of firm. Here’s what you can expect to earn.

Solicitor Salaries

In London, the median solicitor salary is about £88,000 per year. Equity partners at large firms often earn £250,000+; the top 2% exceed £2 million. Outside London, the UK average is around £62,000—£56,000 in the South and £43,000 in the North.

Barrister Salaries

Barristers in London earn a median of roughly £67,500 per year. Top barristers at elite chambers can earn over £1 million; criminal barristers on legal aid may earn £20,000 or less. Outside London, the average is around £54,000.

Paralegal Salaries

In Greater London, paralegals earn about £28,000 on average; experienced ones at top firms can earn more. Elsewhere in the UK, salaries typically range from £18,000 to £25,000 depending on experience.

Legal Secretaries and PAs

Legal PAs and secretaries in London average about £35,000 (range £22,000–£40,000). In regional firms, expect £18,000–£30,000.

What Affects Your Salary?

• Location: London pays more than regional firms
• Practice area: Corporate and commercial often pay more than criminal or high street
• Firm size: Magic Circle and US firms pay premium rates
• Experience: Senior lawyers earn significantly more

Cost of Living Matters

Higher salaries in London are partly offset by higher living costs. Read our guide on the cost of living in London to see how far your salary goes. Use our UK salary calculator to estimate your take-home pay.