Eversheds Sutherland NQ Lawyer Pay Rise: £120k London Salaries Boosted by 9%

• Eversheds Sutherland has increased NQ lawyer pay in London to £120,000 and regions to £80,000.
• The move puts pressure on other law firms to match or exceed their NQ salaries.
• Regional associates are taking notice, with some expressing frustration that their own firms have not yet matched this level of compensation.
• Eversheds Sutherland is now on par with Simmons Simmons , KL Gates, and CMS in terms of NQ salary.

The firm's decision has put pressure on other law firms to match or exceed their NQ salaries, potentially leading to a talent war for top legal talent.

Eversheds Sutherland's recent decision to boost NQ lawyer pay has sent ripples throughout the UK legal industry. The firm's move to increase London salaries by 9% to £120,000 and regional rates around 10% to £80,000 is a significant development in an already competitive market. This adjustment comes on the heels of a year-long period where Eversheds Sutherland had raised NQ pay in the capital to £110,000. The firm's decision has put pressure on other law firms to match or exceed their NQ salaries, potentially leading to a talent war for top legal talent.

Eversheds Sutherland's pay rise has set a new benchmark for UK law firms. The firm is now on par with Simmons Simmons , KL Gates, and CMS in terms of NQ salary, while Winston Taylor and BCLP sit £5,000 higher. This move comes amidst a slew of recent NQ pay rises, with Mishcon de Reya raising its NQ salary to £110,000. The increase has sparked debate among industry professionals, with some arguing that it is a necessary step in the competitive market, while others see it as an opportunity for other firms to catch up.

The pay rise has significant implications for regional law firms. Previously, DLA was the only firm paying £80,000 in the regions. The increase by Eversheds Sutherland has set a new standard, and other firms may need to follow suit to remain competitive. Regional associates are taking notice, with some expressing frustration that their own firms have not yet matched this level of compensation. As one associate noted, 'I will be voting with my feet if my firm does not raise after this.'

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of the competitive landscape in UK law firms, with Eversheds Sutherland's recent pay rise putting pressure on other firms to match or exceed their NQ salaries. This may lead to a talent war for top legal talent.

Source: Original reporting via Legal Cheek