carlUS law firm Quinn Emanuel has significantly raised salaries in its London office, with newly qualified (NQ) associates now earning an impressive £180,000.
The firm, known for its expertise in business litigation, announced an 18% increase in NQ rates, rising from £152,000 to £180,000. This move comes shortly after Magic Circle firm Freshfields raised its NQ salary to £150,000, potentially sparking a City-wide pay competition.
It’s notable that Quinn Emanuel currently does not offer UK training contracts, suggesting that the salary increase may serve as a strategy to attract top-qualifying talent from other firms.
In addition to NQs, salary rises were confirmed for more experienced associates. 1PQE associates will now earn £195,000, up from £160,000, while those with 2PQE will receive £220,000. These salary adjustments will take effect on June 1.
Alex Gerbi, Quinn Emanuel’s London co-managing partner, expressed the firm’s commitment to rewarding its lawyers and attracting top talent. He highlighted the significant contribution of their lawyers to the firm’s success and emphasized the firm’s strategy for further growth.
Quinn Emanuel’s salary increase brings it in line with other top US firms in London, such as Gibson Dunn, which raised NQ pay to £180,000 earlier this year. The decision to increase salaries follows a substantial jump in profit generated by Quinn Emanuel’s London business last year, reaching £153.6m, a 60% increase from £94.9m in 2022.
