What to expect? That is a question we are frequently asked. For 19 years we have conducted a salary survey in the legal sector, so we have some pretty good information to draw from in answering this question. Last year we have had over 70 law firms from across Auckland participate in the Legal Personnel Salary Survey with some interesting insights. We are in the middle of the 2023 survey so will report back when we have more info.

Solicitors, management and support roles, have all increased on average more than 3% since 2017.  We saw quite a jump in 2022 and expect the same in 2023.  The data in the Legal Personnel Salary Survey is submitted directly by law firms, not candidates, which gives the data added credibility in demonstrating what is actually happening in the market. The response rate for this years' survey is also an indication of the interest in legal remuneration at present.

The location of the firm will also have an impact on salaries. Those firms based in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch are likely to pay solicitors more than those in regional towns. This is partly linked to the size of the firm, big firms tend to be in big cities, but also relates to the type of clients they serve. In the main centres, the law firms will have more large companies or government departments as clients, whom they can charge higher fees to. In small towns, the clients are likely to be mostly individuals or small business owners, and consequently charge out rates are lower.

If you want to have a chat about your salary, or if you feel like you’re not getting what you should be, come in and have a coffee with one of our consultants.

Sarah

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