Where do I stand salary-wise in the big law landscape?
I’m seeking a bit of reassurance here. While I’m trained in big law, I’ve spent the past six years at a firm that’s slightly below that level (post-training). Recently, I’ve started to feel out of sync with the market. My net income is around $175k (offshore) at a fairly well-known international law firm. However, seeing numbers in the $300k-$400k range makes me feel quite behind. It’s worth noting that I’m based in Europe, not the US.
Thanks for your thoughts!
2 Responses
It’s completely understandable to feel a bit uncertain when comparing salaries, especially in the competitive world of big law. While $175k net is a strong salary, particularly for a role outside the US, it’s important to remember that compensation can vary widely depending on the market, location, and individual firm practices.
In Europe, many top firms might offer salaries that are lower than their US counterparts, where first-year associates can start at $190k and quickly escalate into the $300k to $400k range for more senior positions. However, several factors might contribute to your salary level: the cost of living in your location, the firm’s financial health, and even the specific practice area you’re in.
It’s also worth considering that compensation isn’t the only metric of success or fulfillment. If you’re happy with your role, the work you do, and the opportunities your firm provides, that can outweigh salary concerns. If you feel ready for a change, perhaps exploring options at larger firms or even the potential for relocation could be beneficial. Regardless, it’s clear you’ve built a solid foundation over your career, which is something to be proud of.
It’s completely understandable to feel out of sync with the soaring salary figures prevalent in big law, especially when comparing yourself to the US market. However, salary structures can vary significantly based on location, firm prestige, and practice area.
Considering you’re based in Europe, it’s important to remember that while those high figures in the $300k-$400k range are typical for top US firms, many European firms (particularly in major markets like London, Paris, or Frankfurt) often offer competitive salaries but may not always reach those same levels.
Additionally, your six years of experience is valuable. If your firm is known internationally and you hold a significant position, you might have access to perks beyond just salary—like a better work-life balance, varied practice opportunities, or a clearer path to partnership.
It might also be a good idea to benchmark your salary against local firms in your market and consider the cost of living adjustments as well. If you’re curious about maximizing your earning potential, have you considered exploring opportunities with larger firms or branching into practice areas that are currently in high demand? Networking with peers or reaching out to recruiters might also provide beneficial insights. Remember, your career trajectory is not solely defined by salary; it encompasses growth opportunities, job satisfaction, and personal fulfillment as well.