Solicitors and lawyers Salary
Median salary £53,314 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £53,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For solicitors and lawyers, £56,977 is the typical (median) pay. That is well above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +46% versus the national average. Experienced solicitors and lawyers (top 25%) earn over £74,190.
About this role
Solicitors and lawyers provide expert legal advice, representation and services. They interpret legislation, prepare legal documents, represent clients and ensure compliance with the law across civil, criminal, commercial or specialist areas of practice.
Key responsibilities
- Advising clients on legal rights, obligations and options
- Preparing legal documents, contracts and court papers
- Representing clients in negotiations, mediations or court proceedings
- Conducting legal research and case analysis
- Ensuring compliance with professional conduct rules and regulations
Qualifications and entry routes
Solicitors require a law degree (or GDL) plus SQE and qualifying work experience. Barristers require a law degree (or GDL), vocational component and pupillage. All must be admitted to the relevant professional register.
Career outlook
Competitive entry but strong demand for qualified professionals, particularly in commercial, technology, employment and regulatory law.
Key skills
Common industries
- Law firms
- In-house corporate legal teams
- Public sector
- Judiciary
- Regulatory bodies
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£26,807
0-2 years
Mid Level
£37,751
3-7 years
Senior
£74,190
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +177% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 21.3%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,663
Solicitors and lawyers salary: common questions
How much do solicitors and lawyers earn in the UK?
Is £56,977 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for solicitors and lawyers?
Have solicitors and lawyers salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for solicitors and lawyers?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).