United Kingdom - London
 
Background Information
London is one of the world's great cities offering both a modern lifestyle and history dating back to Roman times. The city is recognised as one of the leading global financial centres and is often the European base for multi-national corporations. Accordingly, opportunities for lawyers to be involved in cutting-edge/international matters are exceptional.
 
Law Firms
London's status in the global financial markets and its historical background as the centre for common law has made it arguably the world's leading legal city. The major international law firms are all represented in London including the "Magic Circle" firms (Allen & Overy, Clifford Chance, Freshfields, Linklaters and Slaughter and May) and the leading US firms
 
Principal Areas of Demand
The London market is dominated by the finance and corporate areas; however, there are other areas of demand as set out below. Principal areas of demand include:
  1. Asset Finance
  2. Leveraged Finance
  3. Project Finance
  4. Structured Finance
  5. Banking, Capital Markets & Derivatives
  6. Corporate/M&A
  7. Construction
  8. IT/Outsourcing
Remuneration & Benefits
Lawyers are remunerated well in London. The highest salaries are paid by the US firms paying New York rates (c.£80,000+ at NQ level), followed by those paying “Mid-Atlantic rates” (c.£60,000+ at NQ level). The leading UK firms' salaries typically start at c.£50,000 for the NQ level. The top rate of tax in the UK is currently 40%.

The standard annual leave allowance in the UK is 25 days and this can increase with service. New York firms do tend to offer less holiday at c.15 to 20 days.
 
Outside the Office
London can cater to all tastes and interests. The city is a leading centre of the arts including the West End's world famous theatrical productions, Covent Garden's opera and ballet and the various internationally renowned art galleries. London also offers an array of bars, restaurants and clubs.

London is also a major transport hub, providing access to Europe and the rest of the world. The "no frills" airlines offer cheap flights to many European destinations making it cheap and easy to take short breaks on the Continent. Road and rail links to Europe are also good with both the Channel Tunnel and ferry services being available.
 
If you are interested in working as a Lawyer in the above jurisdiction, please contact us for a confidential and detailed discussion.