Pay on the up for region’s in-house lawyers

LEGAL recruitment firm BCL Legal has launched its annual salary survey of in-house lawyers, which shows that nearly 70% saw their pay increase over the last year.

The survey analysed salaries, bonuses and general benefits. One of the key findings was that average salaries for in-house lawyers in the North West with one to five years’ post qualification experience (PQE) varied between £44,000 and £72,000 whilst from six to 10 years PQE it was £72,500 and £115,000.

The research also showed that 78% of respondees received a bonus in 2013 with the average bonus as a percentage being 20% of their salary.

Other findings included; 57% received a car allowance, 93% received pension contributions with the average contribution being 8%, 94% received 25 days or more holiday and 81% benefited from private medical insurance.

Mark Levine, director of Manchester-based BCL Legal and head of its in-house department, said: “The in-house market has certainly become stronger over the past 12 months and this analysis gives a comprehensive overview of remuneration in the region.

“Our research has also shown that whilst salary is – of course – central, many in-house lawyers have also seen their overall packages improve.”