The legal industry in India is highly competitive, with top law firms offering lucrative salary packages to attract and retain the best talent. In 2024, the highest paying law firms in India offer starting salaries ranging from ₹15-18 LPA for fresh graduates, with senior lawyers and partners earning up to ₹1 crore annually. These firms provide opportunities to work on high-profile cases, international transactions, and corporate deals, making them highly desirable workplaces for law graduates.
The top 10 law firms in India, such as Khaitan & Co, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, and Trilegal, are known for their expertise in sectors like Merger & Acquisitions, Corporate Law, and banking. For aspiring lawyers, these firms offer not only financial rewards but also significant career growth in law and learning opportunities, making them the pinnacle of legal employment in India.
List of Highest Paying Law Firms In India in 2024
The legal sector in India has seen significant growth over the years, leading to increased competition among law firms to attract top talent. For fresh graduates and seasoned professionals alike, the salary packages offered by the country's top firms can be a huge draw. Below are the top 10 highest-paying law firms in India for 2024 –
1. Khaitan & Co.
Starting Salary: ₹16-17 LPA
Established in 1911, Khaitan & Co is one of India’s oldest and most prominent law firms, recognized for its expertise in a wide range of practice areas including mergers & acquisitions, banking, real estate, and dispute resolution. The firm’s long-standing reputation is bolstered by its deep client base, which includes large domestic corporations and multinational companies.
In addition to offering some of the highest salaries in the legal industry, Khaitan & Co provides its lawyers with ample opportunities to work on cross-border transactions and high-profile cases, such as its involvement in several billion-dollar M&A deals.
The firm also emphasizes professional development through extensive training programs and mentorship initiatives. With senior lawyers earning up to ₹66 LPA, Khaitan & Co remains a sought-after destination for both fresh law graduates and seasoned professionals.
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2. Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas (SAM)
Starting Salary: ₹16 LPA
Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas (SAM) is one of India’s largest full-service law firms, with a strong focus on corporate law, competition law, and dispute resolution. Known for its global reach and top-tier client base, SAM has handled some of the most complex and high-value transactions in recent years, including major M&A deals like the $4 billion merger of Sun Pharma and Ranbaxy.
The firm’s expertise spans across sectors such as infrastructure, banking, and private equity, allowing lawyers to gain experience in diverse fields.
SAM offers competitive starting salaries for fresh graduates, but its real allure lies in the career growth opportunities it provides, with senior associates earning between ₹25-35 LPA. SAM's international partnerships further provide lawyers with exposure to global legal trends.
3. Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM)
Starting Salary: ₹16 LPA
Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) is widely regarded as a leader in corporate law, banking, finance, and dispute resolution. The firm’s high-profile clients include Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, and government entities.
CAM is known for its involvement in significant legal matters, such as advising on cross-border mergers, private equity transactions, and regulatory issues. With offices in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, CAM offers lawyers opportunities to work in various jurisdictions and handle international cases.
The firm also provides robust professional development programs and mentorship for junior associates, helping them advance rapidly in their careers. Senior associates at CAM can earn up to ₹40 LPA, making it one of the highest-paying firms in India.
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4. S&R Associates
Starting Salary: ₹16.3 LPA
S&R Associates is a boutique law firm known for its expertise in high-stakes corporate transactions, litigation, and dispute resolution. Despite its smaller size compared to tier-1 law firms, S&R Associates consistently ranks among the top-paying firms in India, offering competitive salaries and significant growth opportunities.
The firm specializes in areas such as mergers & acquisitions, private equity, and capital markets, and is known for handling complex international deals. S&R Associates is ideal for lawyers who seek a more hands-on experience, as the firm's boutique structure allows associates to engage deeply with cases.
The firm’s ability to attract top clients, both domestic and international, makes it a compelling option for law graduates aiming to specialize in corporate law.
5. Luthra & Luthra Law Offices
Starting Salary: ₹15-17 LPA
Luthra & Luthra Law Offices is one of the top biggest law firms in India, known for its expertise in banking, finance, and corporate law. The firm has a strong reputation for handling complex, high-profile cases, particularly in the realms of cross-border transactions and regulatory matters.
Luthra & Luthra regularly advises large multinational corporations, financial institutions, and government entities. In addition to competitive salaries, the firm offers its employees opportunities for rapid career progression, with senior associates earning upwards of ₹35 LPA.
The firm’s dynamic work environment and its emphasis on professional development make it an attractive destination for law graduates. Luthra & Luthra also offers substantial bonuses based on performance, making the overall compensation package highly rewarding.
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6. Trilegal
Starting Salary: ₹16-17 LPA
Trilegal is known for its expertise in sectors such as real estate, private equity, and competition law. The firm’s rapid growth and focus on high-profile cases have made it one of the top destinations for law graduates in India.
Trilegal frequently handles large cross-border transactions, providing its associates with exposure to international legal work. In addition to offering competitive starting salaries, the firm provides a collaborative work environment where young lawyers are mentored by senior professionals.
Trilegal's emphasis on professional development, coupled with its involvement in cutting-edge legal matters, makes it a compelling choice for law graduates looking to build a successful career. Senior lawyers at the firm can earn up to ₹43 LPA.
7. AZB & Partners
Starting Salary: ₹15-18 LPA
AZB & Partners is a leading Indian law firm known for its work in mergers & acquisitions, private equity, banking, and regulatory matters. The firm has handled some of the most significant transactions in the country, making it a key player in the legal industry. With offices in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, AZB serves a diverse range of clients, including major corporations and financial institutions.
The firm’s structured career development programs and competitive pay make it an attractive destination for law graduates. Senior associates at AZB can earn upwards of ₹40 LPA, and the firm’s performance bonuses further enhance its reputation as a top-paying employe.
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8. J Sagar Associates (JSA)
Starting Salary: ₹16 LPA
J Sagar Associates (JSA) is a full-service law firm offering expertise in corporate law, dispute resolution, and regulatory issues. The firm has a strong reputation for its collaborative work environment, where associates are given ample opportunities to grow and develop their legal skills. JSA’s diverse client base, which includes both domestic and international companies, provides lawyers with exposure to a wide range of legal matters. With competitive starting salaries and substantial opportunities for advancement, JSA is an excellent choice for law graduates looking to build a career in corporate law or litigation. Senior lawyers at JSA can earn up to ₹35 LPA, making it one of the most attractive employers in the legal industry.
9. Desai & Diwanji
Starting Salary: ₹6-8.4 LPA
Desai & Diwanji is a boutique law firm specializing in mergers & acquisitions, corporate law, and capital markets. While the starting salaries at Desai & Diwanji are lower than those offered by tier-1 law firms, the firm compensates with generous bonuses and rapid career progression.
Its expertise in corporate transactions and cross-border deals makes it a valuable learning ground for law graduates looking to specialize in these areas. Desai & Diwanji’s involvement in high-stakes international transactions, such as advising on the acquisition of 72 Airbus aircraft by GoAir, demonstrates its strong position in the legal market.
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10. Talwar Thakore & Associates (TTA)
Starting Salary: ₹18.2 LPA (with bonus)
Talwar Thakore & Associates (TTA) is a boutique law firm that specializes in banking, finance, and corporate transactions. The firm is known for offering one of the highest starting salaries in India, thanks to its generous bonus structure. TTA’s expertise in handling complex financial transactions and regulatory matters makes it a top choice for law graduates interested in these sectors. The firm’s boutique structure allows for a more personalized working environment, where associates can closely collaborate with senior partners. TTA’s involvement in major deals, coupled with its high salaries, makes it one of the most attractive employers in the Indian legal industry.
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Salaries Paid by Top 16 Indian Law Firms in India
The top law firms in India offer highly competitive salaries, starting around ₹ 15 to 18 LPA for fresh graduates. These packages include bonuses, health benefits, and sometimes international assignments. As you climb the ladder to senior associate or partner, salaries can reach anywhere from ₹40 LPA to ₹1 crore or more, especially in fields like M&A and corporate law. Let us look at a quick overview of the highest paying law firms in India along with the average salary packages offered by them –
How to Get an Opportunity at a Highest Paying Law Firm in India?
Landing a high-paying job or internship at top law firms in India requires strategic planning and a proactive approach. Here are essential steps to help you get started –
Step 1: Strengthen Your Academic Background
Top law firms prioritize candidates with a robust academic record. Graduating from prestigious law schools with an LLB Degree, and maintaining excellent grades can significantly enhance your resume. Engage in academic activities that bolster your legal knowledge and skills, and strive to excel in subjects related to your desired area of law, such as corporate law or dispute resolution.
Step 2: Gain Practical Experience
Internships and clerkships are invaluable for gaining real-world experience. Aim to secure internships at top law firms during your academic years, as this will not only provide practical exposure but also improve your legal acumen and expand your professional network. Participate in moot courts and other legal competitions to demonstrate your skills and commitment to the field.
Step 3: Build a Strong Professional Network
Networking plays a critical role in the legal industry. Attend legal workshops, seminars, and conferences to connect with established lawyers and industry experts. Engage in discussions, join legal forums, and consider membership in relevant legal associations. These connections can offer mentorship opportunities and potentially lead to job referrals.
Step 4: Develop Specialized Skills
Focus on acquiring specialized skills in practice areas that are in high demand by top law firms, such as mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, or intellectual property rights. Staying updated with the latest legal developments and participating in advanced training sessions or certifications can set you apart from other candidates.
By maintaining a proactive approach to your professional development, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a position at a high-paying law firm in India.
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Why Should You Work for a Top Law Firm as a Law Graduate?
Working for a top law firm as a law graduate can set you on a fast-track career trajectory. These firms not only offer substantial salaries but also provide invaluable exposure to high-profile cases, international opportunities, and structured career growth. Whether you want to specialize in a niche area of law or advance to a leadership position, top law firms give you the tools and environment to excel. Here’s why getting an internship or full time opportunity at a law firm should be the first thing on your checklist as a law graduate –
1. High Salaries and Bonuses – Graduates at top firms like Khaitan & Co or Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas start with packages upwards of ₹16 LPA. Performance-based bonuses can also significantly boost your total compensation.
2. Exposure to High-Profile Clients – Top firms deal with prominent clients and high-stakes cases. For example, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas handles large M&A deals and international disputes. As a young lawyer, you'll gain experience working on complex legal matters that shape industries.
3. International Opportunities – Many top firms have global ties. Firms like CAM and Trilegal frequently collaborate with international law firms, giving lawyers opportunities to work abroad and handle cross-border cases.
4. Comprehensive Training Programs – Leading firms invest heavily in the professional development of their employees. Graduates benefit from mentorship, structured learning programs, and clear career progression paths.
5. Networking and Prestige – Working at a top law firm can enhance your professional network and add significant value to your resume. The reputation of firms like Khaitan & Co opens doors for further opportunities within and outside the legal industry.
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Cracking Your Way Into Highest Paying Law Firms: Quick Tips for Law Students
Cracking your way into India's highest-paying law firms requires a mix of academic excellence, practical skills, and networking. Below are actionable tips for law students aiming to secure positions at top firms –
Tip 1: Build a Strong Academic Foundation Early On
Top firms value candidates who show strong legal acumen and analytical skills, often reflected in their academic performance. Prioritize excelling in core subjects like Corporate Law, Contract Law, and Dispute Resolution. Participate in moot courts and research projects. Maintain a high CGPA, as this is often the first filter in law firm applications.
Tip 2: Gain Experience Through Multiple Internships
Experience at reputable law firms makes you more attractive to future employers and provides an opportunity to understand how the industry operates. Apply for internships early and aim for diverse experiences. If possible, intern at a mix of full-service and boutique firms to understand different practice areas. Make sure to work on live cases, engage with legal documentation, and attend court sessions to broaden your practical knowledge.
Tip 3: Cultivate a Strong Network Within the Legal Community
Networking can open doors to hidden opportunities and mentorship, often leading to job referrals or placements. Attend legal seminars, workshops, and events regularly. Connect with alumni from your law school, established lawyers, and law firm partners on platforms like LinkedIn. Participate actively in legal forums and online communities to stay updated and connected.
Tip 4: Sharpen Your Skills in High-Demand Practice Areas
Specializing in niche areas like Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Law, Banking & Finance, or Intellectual Property can increase your value to top firms. Take up elective courses in these areas during your law degree. Seek internships in law firms known for their expertise in these sectors, and engage in relevant certification courses or workshops to develop a strong foundation in these fields.
Tip 5: Develop a Strong Online Presence and Legal Portfolio
A strong portfolio showcasing your legal skills and achievements makes you more marketable. Create a LinkedIn profile highlighting your academic achievements, internships, and skills. Publish articles on legal blogs or journals to showcase your expertise. Also, gather recommendations from mentors or peers that emphasize your work ethic and legal understanding.
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Related FAQs
Q1. What factors influence salaries at top law firms?
Salaries are influenced by factors like the firm's specialization, client base, location, and the lawyer’s experience and academic performance. Some areas like M&A and private equity law tend to offer higher salaries due to their profitability.
Q2. Are bonuses common in law firms?
Yes, many top firms offer performance-based bonuses that can significantly enhance annual earnings. Firms like TTA offer bonuses that increase the total salary by as much as 40%.
Q3. Do top Indian law firms offer international opportunities?
Yes, firms like Khaitan & Co, CAM, and SAM have strong international partnerships, which provide opportunities to work on cross-border cases and global deals.
Q4. How do salaries in Indian law firms compare to international firms?
While Indian law firms offer competitive packages, especially at the senior associate and partner levels, top international firms often provide higher salaries, particularly in cities like London and New York.
Q5. What are the highest-paying practice areas?
M&A, private equity, and banking law are some of the most lucrative practice areas, with firms paying top salaries to attract specialists.
