International firm Herbert Smith Freehills has joined other City firms in its announcement of a big increase in newly qualified solicitors’ salaries.

From 1 July, annual London NQ base salaries have risen from £120,000 to £135,000, an increase of more than 12.5%. 

Trainee salaries have also received a boost. First and second year trainee salaries will increase by £6,000 with first year trainees receiving £56,000 and second year trainees £61,000. The new rates will be effective from 1 September.

Herbert Smith Freehills is the latest firm in a spate of salary increase announcements.

Alison Brown, executive partner, said: ‘We are investing in our people – including our trainees and associates across all levels of experience – in a way that ensures a balanced and competitive reward structure in a dynamic market.

‘This approach keeps us in the leading pack of international law firms and supports sustainable growth: good for our people, our clients and our business.’