Law Firms

Types of law firm

There are roughly 9,500 law firms in England and Wales. All offer a very different experience. The following will help you drill down the right one for you.

How firms differ in prestige and reach

From Magic Circle firms in the City to regional firms serving one here, read what each of these labels really mean in practice.

  • US firms in the UK

    An American based firm with a London office. Often pay US-scale salaries which are above standard UK rates.

  • Magic Circle firms

    The five most prestigious City firms.

  • Silver Circle firms

    The tier just below the Magic Circle. Highly regarded often with a particular practice strength.

  • International Firms

    Offices spanning multiple countries and continents, handling real cross-border work.

  • National firms

    Offices across the UK, not just London. Work and culture can vary a lot by office.

  • Regional firms

    Based outside of London, serving local and regional areas.

Continue your research

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Found your interest?

Find and read what trainees think about the firm you are curious about.

 Read Law Firm reviews

Found your interest?

Find and read what trainees think about the firm you are curious about.

Read Law Firm reviews

Which law firm is right for you?

Compare firms on pay, culture and what actually matters to you.

Start comparing

Not sure which area of law interests you?

From banking and finance to family law, see what day-to-day life really looks for lawyers across different practice areas.

Explore practice areas
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Found your interest?

Find and read what trainees think about the firm you are curious about.

 Read Law Firm reviews
Law firms
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Law firms

Which law firm is right for you?

Compare firms on pay, culture and what actually matters to you.

 Start comparing
Practice Areas
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Practice Areas

Not sure which area of law interests you?

From banking and finance to family law, see what day-to-day life really looks for lawyers across different practice areas.

 Explore practice areas

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