Our trusted partner Pathway has recently conducted a salary survey examining salaries and working trends for legal professionals in Northern Ireland. Surveys like this are beneficial because insights into current salaries and market trends help professionals make informed career decisions. ILSPA were pleased to see some positive findings regarding the roles of legal support professionals in Northern Ireland.
The survey showed that legal support professionals remain in demand, with salary levels influenced by experience, seniority, and the type of firm. Pathway has kindly summarised their findings below.
Typical Salary
- Legal Executive: Average pay £30,000 – £36,000
Senior support roles with significant responsibility; specialist knowledge can push salaries toward the top end.
- Paralegal: Average pay £23,500 – £28,000
Early to mid-level roles; litigation and commercial experience increases earning potential.
- PA / Partner Legal Secretary: Average pay £28,000 – £36,000
Supporting partners or senior teams; responsibility and firm type influence pay.
- Junior Legal Secretary: Average pay £23,500 – £26,000
Entry-level roles; progression can be rapid with experience.
Legal Support Market Insight
Legal support salaries continue to rise, especially for Legal Executives, Paralegals, and PAs supporting senior fee earners. Candidates with strong organisational skills, specialist experience, and adaptability are highly sought after.
Key Takeaways
Firm size and practice area matter. Corporate and commercial roles tend to pay more and often offer greater flexibility.
Experience drives value. Salary progression is closely linked to responsibility and specialism for both solicitors and support staff.
Hybrid working is common in medium and large firms, particularly in corporate, commercial, and litigation teams. Smaller practices remain primarily office-based.
Market awareness is key. Understanding typical ranges helps both candidates and employers make informed decisions.
Working Patterns & Flexibility
Hybrid working is increasingly common across large and medium-sized corporate and commercial firms, and is also offered within commercial litigation and commercial real estate teams.
Smaller general practice firms, particularly residential conveyancing, tend to operate primarily on site.
Thinking about your next move?
For tailored guidance on Northern Ireland salaries, opportunities, or market trends, Pathway – Specialists in Legal Recruitment is here to help.
