Solicitor versus barrister
This table illustrates some of the differences between the two branches of the profession, including as they relate to demographics, working environments, career progression and salary.
Solicitors As of April 2021, there were 151,885 practising solicitors. The total number of solicitors on the roll was 208,366. Women make up 49% of all solicitors and partners in law firms. But there are many more men than women at partner level – on average, a large firm has 65-70%male partners and only 30-35%women. People from ethnic minority backgrounds make up 21% of all solicitors. Mostly employed in private law firms, so receive a regular monthly salary. Work mainly with individuals, companies and barristers. Office-based. Engage more in ongoing advisory and one-to-one client work. Aspire to become a partner (ie, part ownership of firm and entitlement to a percentage of its profits). While there is no longer aminimumannual trainee salary, the averageUK salary for a first-year trainee is around £27,500, whileCity firms pay considerablymore – anywhere from £32,000 upwards.
Barristers In 2020, there were 17,078 practising barristers, Of those, 13,502 were self- employed. Around 38% of all practising barristers are women (ie, 6,499 women compared to 10,426 men). People from ethnic minority backgrounds make up 13.9% of all practising barristers (ie, 2,384). Mostly self-employed, so receive irregular (but often substantial) fees. Work mainly with solicitors and other barristers. Chambers and court-based. Engage more in one-off advocacy (ie, court cases). Aspire to become Queen’s Counsel (QC) (ie, a top barrister, normally instructed in very serious and complex cases). The Bar Standards Board requires that all pupils be paid no less than £18,960 per annum in London and £16,601 outside of London. Many earn much more – upwards of £60,000 in some cases.
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