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SOC 2411 Business, media and public service professionals

Barristers and judges Salary

Median salary £34,253 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Barristers and judges provide expert legal advice, representation and services. They interpret legislation, prepare legal documents, represent clients and ensure compliance with the law across civil, criminal, commercial or specialist areas of practice.

Key responsibilities

  • Advising clients on legal rights, obligations and options
  • Preparing legal documents, contracts and court papers
  • Representing clients in negotiations, mediations or court proceedings
  • Conducting legal research and case analysis
  • Ensuring compliance with professional conduct rules and regulations

Qualifications and entry routes

Solicitors require a law degree (or GDL) plus SQE and qualifying work experience. Barristers require a law degree (or GDL), vocational component and pupillage. All must be admitted to the relevant professional register.

Career outlook

Competitive entry but strong demand for qualified professionals, particularly in commercial, technology, employment and regulatory law.

Key skills

Legal analysis Negotiation Written and oral advocacy Attention to detail Client management

Common industries

  • Law firms
  • In-house corporate legal teams
  • Public sector
  • Judiciary
  • Regulatory bodies

Data coverage

SOC code 2411
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2021–2025
Estimated jobs 28,000

Median Salary

£34,253

Mean Salary

£43,732

Jobs (000s)

28k

Data Years

5 years

Salary Range (2025)

P25: £21,705Median: £34,253P75: £60,096
P10: --P25: £22kMedian: £34kP75: £60kP90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Entry Level

£21,705

0-2 years

Mid Level

£21,705

3-7 years

Senior

£60,096

8-15 years

Potential career growth: +177% from entry to leadership

Salary Trend (2021-2025)

Nominal growth: +-26.0%Real growth: -34.5%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£34,253

Full-time Only

£50,915

Full-time premium: +£16,662