_{Thank you I'll take it.}

Freshfields has raised salaries for its NQ solicitors from £125k to £150k, RollOnFriday can reveal.

The firm has also boosted trainee pay from £50k to £56k in year one, and from £55k to £61k in year two.

The significant hikes were conveyed by the firm’s training partner to future trainees today and are effective from 1st May.

“We recognise the importance of maintaining a distinct offering for our lawyers, in the experience of working here; the development opportunities, through training and work; and our pay and other benefits. As such, the firm has recently reviewed its trainee and associate pay”, said Craig Montgomery.

That’s £25k more than the rest of the Magic Circle – and you can bet they’ll follow suit.

In a statement, Mark Sansom, London Managing Partner, commented, “We’re committed to embedding a culture that supports our people to deliver their best, knowing their contribution is valued and rewarded. Being part of Freshfields means working alongside the best lawyers in the market and being fairly recognised for excellent client service on the most complex and high-profile legal work".

"This move follows a year of strong growth for the London business, thanks to the dedication of all our people. It also reflects our confidence in the firm’s continued market leadership across all our London practices, further boosted by the success of the material investments in the US and other markets”.

And it means the rest of the Magic Circle will have to catch up.

Let the pay war continue! And the pay bunching at senior levels!