As we move into the new year, many in-house legal departments are wondering what the top in-house legal salary increases and trends will be for 2023. While no crystal ball can tell us definitively what the future holds, we can take a look at recent trends and make some informed predictions. Here are a few of the top in-house legal salary increases and trends to keep an eye on in 2023.
In recent years, we've seen a steady increase in base salaries for in-house lawyers. This trend is expected to continue in 2023, with the average base salary for an in-house lawyer predicted to be between $145,000 and $175,000. This increase is being driven by a number of factors, including the increasing complexity of legal work and the demand for attorneys with specialized skill sets.
In addition to increased base salaries, we're also seeing a rise in bonus opportunities for in-house lawyers. Bonuses are becoming more commonplace as businesses seek to reward their top performers. It's not uncommon for in-house lawyers to receive bonuses that are 10-20% of their base salary. If you're an outstanding attorney who consistently goes above and beyond, 2023 may be the year you see a significant bump in your total compensation.
Another trend we're seeing is an increase in opportunities for career advancement within legal departments. As companies continue to expand their operations globally, they are increasingly looking for experienced lawyers who can help them navigate the complexities of doing business in multiple jurisdictions. If you're looking to take your career to the next level, 2023 may be the perfect time to consider moving to an in-house legal department that offers greater opportunities for growth and advancement.
These are just a few of the top in-house legal salary increases and trends we predict for 2023. If you're an attorney looking to maximize your earnings potential, now is the time to start considering making a move to an in-house legal department. With salaries increasing and bonuses becoming more commonplace, there has never been a better time to be an in-house lawyer.