Loyalty is often seen as a virtue – and in many ways, it is. In law, staying with a firm for several years can show commitment, dependability and deep-rooted client relationships. But when it comes to your earnings, there’s a fine line between being loyal and being undervalued.
If you’ve been with the same firm for a number of years and haven’t had a significant pay rise – or you’re earning less than peers who’ve moved firms more frequently – you’re not alone. In fact, one of the most common patterns we see as recruiters is that lawyers who stay put often get left behind financially.
So, is your loyalty costing you more than it’s worth?
The Reality of Salary Progression in Law
While many law firms reward tenure with incremental pay increases, they often don’t match the kind of salary uplift lawyers can get when moving roles. It’s not unusual for a lawyer who moves to a new firm to secure a 10-20% increase in salary – sometimes more, depending on the demand in their practice area and region.
Meanwhile, lawyers who stay in the same role for years may only see modest annual uplifts that don’t keep pace with the market or reflect their growing experience. Over time, that gap adds up.
Why Loyalty Isn’t Always Rewarded
The truth is, many firms rely on the assumption that long-serving employees won’t leave. They may prioritise market-rate offers to attract new hires over reviewing salaries of existing team members.
This doesn’t mean your firm is trying to take advantage, but it does mean that you need to advocate for your own worth. If you haven’t had a salary review in over a year, or you’re not being paid in line with the market average for your PQE and location, it may be time to ask some honest questions.
Signs Your Loyalty Might Be Holding You Back
- You haven’t had a significant pay rise in more than 18 months
- You’ve taken on more responsibility, but your salary hasn’t reflected that
- You’re being asked to supervise junior lawyers or manage clients without a change in title or pay
- Colleagues who’ve moved firms are earning significantly more
- You’re told the firm “can’t offer more” without a clear explanation or pathway
What You Can Do About It
- Know Your Worth
The first step is understanding what someone with your skills and experience should be earning. Realm’s annual salary research can give you a benchmark for your PQE level, region and practice area.
- Start the Conversation
If you enjoy your current firm but feel you’re being underpaid, it’s worth raising the issue internally first. Ask for a salary review and come prepared with evidence like benchmarking data, examples of increased responsibility, and the impact you’ve had on the team or clients.
- Explore the Market
Sometimes, the only way to move forward financially is to move firms. Even if you’re not actively looking, speaking with a specialist recruiter can give you a clearer picture of what’s out there – and what you could be earning elsewhere.
Loyalty should be a two-way street. If your firm values your contribution, they’ll want to ensure you’re being paid fairly and progressing professionally. But if that recognition isn’t forthcoming, it might be time to reflect on whether your loyalty is helping your career – or holding it back.
Curious to know if you’re being paid what you’re worth?
Check out our 2025 Salary Guides for the latest market data across private practice roles, broken down by PQE and location for your practice area.
If you’d like a confidential chat about your options, get in touch with one of our specialist consultants—we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your career and earning potential.
