The Law Society of England and Wales has recommended a 2.45% salary increase for aspiring solicitors, in line with the Consumer Price Index 12-month rolling inflation rate.
The increase, which is not a regulatory requirement but ‘a matter of voluntary good practice’, means trainee solicitors outside of London should be paid £24,916 and £28,090 in the capital for qualifying work experience (QWE) for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) or during their training contract.
The recommended minimum salary policy is reviewed in June each year, with the revised amount coming into effect in September in line with the academic year/ new trainee or QWE year. The recommended minimum salary is updated annually.
Law Society president Richard Atkinson said:
“The minimum salary policy and uplift supports those seeking to enter the profession. We encourage employers to consider this recommendation, as employers paying the recommended minimum salary for trainee solicitors could have a positive impact on equality and diversity within the legal profession.
“The policy applies to anyone undertaking a period of recognised training, such as a training contract, or anyone employed with the primary purpose of gaining qualified work experience.”
