A&O Shearman is the latest top-ranking City firm to announce a big increase in salary for newly qualified solicitors.

NQ salaries have risen to £150,000 per annum, an increase of £25,000, while trainee salaries are up £6,000, taking year one trainee pay to  £56,000 and year two to £61,000.

Denise Gibson, London managing partner at A&O Shearman, said the rises were designed to be ‘highly competitive to reflect the markets’.

She added: ‘Our compensation structure gives us flexibility to reward expertise, performance and wider contribution and is designed to be highly competitive to reflect the markets in which we operate. Trainees and NQs are a key part of the firm’s future and A&O Shearman provides unmatched opportunities for them to build successful careers.

'Our people are fundamental to our success and, in addition to offering a competitive remuneration and excellent benefits package, we are committed to nurturing a rewarding and supportive culture, which includes important elements such as a focus on wellbeing and engendering an environment where people can be themselves and excel.’

A&O's pay rates fr juniors now match those of Clifford Chance, Freshfields and Linklaters.

 

This article is now closed for comment.