Analysis of Working Hours for Junior Lawyers at Leading Law Firms
As compensation levels reach new heights within the legal profession, a recent survey provides insights into the working hours of junior lawyers across over 110 prominent law firms.
The 2026 27 Trainee and Junior Lawyer Survey, which gathered more than 2,000 anonymous responses, reveals average start and finish times, offering prospective lawyers a clearer understanding of the realities of working life at various firms.
Overall, the survey indicates a slight increase in working hours compared to the previous year. More firms reported longer average working days, particularly among the highest paying firms, where junior lawyers are increasingly logging over 12 hours a day.
The survey data highlights that individual experiences may vary based on practice area, deal flow, and workload. However, the findings serve as a useful guide for future trainees regarding what they might expect in terms of working hours.
Among the firms surveyed, those with the highest salaries tend to have the longest working hours. For instance, firms like Milbank and Paul, Weiss reported average finish times around 10pm, with working days exceeding 12 hours. In contrast, firms with lower pay scales often have earlier finish times, with some juniors leaving before 6pm.
As junior lawyer salaries rise, with some reaching £181,000 and trainee pay climbing to £75,000, the expectation of longer working hours accompanies these financial rewards. Many juniors at top US firms report finishing their work late into the evening, while those at firms with a regional focus enjoy a more balanced schedule.
The survey also captures a range of sentiments from junior lawyers regarding their work life balance. While some express dissatisfaction with the demanding hours, others appreciate the flexibility offered by their firms, allowing them to manage personal commitments alongside professional responsibilities.
This data will be beneficial for students considering their career paths, as it illustrates the trade off between high salaries and demanding work hours in the legal sector.