Elite American law firms in London are pushing their junior solicitors to unprecedented limits, with working weeks routinely exceeding 70 hours in exchange for starting salaries surpassing £170,000.
Research conducted by Legal Cheek reveals New York-based Weil, Gotshal and Manges leads the pack, with trainee and junior lawyers logging an average of 67.5 hours during the standard five-day work week. Weekend work pushes this figure beyond 70 hours, highlighting the intense demands placed on young legal professionals.
The dominance of US firms in the London legal market is evident, with American practices occupying the top 11 positions for longest working hours. British firm Linklaters ranks highest among domestic practices, with junior lawyers reporting more than 60 hours weekly.
Mounting concerns over salary inflation at junior levels are being driven by aggressive US firms. London offices of Gibson Dunn and Paul Weiss now offer newly qualified solicitors £180,000 annually, significantly outpacing the prestigious magic circle firms’ £150,000 starting salaries.
The research exposes stark differences in working practices, with many junior lawyers at top-tier firms regularly finishing after 10:30pm. One anonymous respondent revealed: “I haven’t seen sunlight in three months,” whilst another noted the “always available culture” despite the generous compensation.
Ironically, Slaughter and May, widely considered the highest-earning magic circle firm, reported the shortest working week among its peer group at 51 hours. These figures still substantially exceed the UK national average of 36.6 hours, as reported by the Office for National Statistics.
Post Disclaimer
The following content has been published by Stockmark.IT. All information utilised in the creation of this communication has been gathered from publicly available sources that we consider reliable. Nevertheless, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this communication.
This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as an offer, recommendation, solicitation, inducement, or invitation by or on behalf of the Company or any affiliates to engage in any investment activities. The opinions and views expressed by the authors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Company, its affiliates, or any other third party.
The services and products mentioned in this communication may not be suitable for all recipients, by continuing to read this website and its content you agree to the terms of this disclaimer.