Junior barristers at top commercial chambers earn double salary of US firm NQs

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Junior barristers at leading commercial chambers can earn up to £360,000 in their first year, according to new figures. This is double the earnings of newly qualified (NQ) solicitors at top US law firms in London.

The Legal Cheek Chambers Most List revealed that high-performing barristers at South Square can expect to earn an average of £150,000 in their first year, equivalent to associates at magic circle law firms. Barristers at the chambers can expect their earnings to rise to £250,000 in the second year and exceed £300,000 by the third year.

In a similar vein, barristers at Brick Court Chambers earn an average of £150,000 in their first year, which increases to more than £250,000 in the second year. Elsewhere, barristers in their first year at One Essex Court can earn £360,000 and a staggering £475,000 in the second year. However, it should be noted that these figures are contingent on the barristers' dedication and work ethic.

In comparison, the highest paying law firms in the UK, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher UK LLP and Paul Weiss, offer £180,000 to NQs, with the possibility of additional bonuses. The yearly pay increases for solicitors are typically around £10,000, which is significantly lower than the £100,000 pay rises that some barristers can expect.

It’s important to note that the comparison isn’t an entirely direct one because the figures for barristers represent total earnings, from which they’re expected to pay chambers rent and other overheads. In addition, as self-employed professionals, barristers generally don’t receive the same perks that come with being employed by a law firm, such as private healthcare, amenities and paid holiday.