In brief: Salary climb shows no signs of stopping

Competition between firms for top lawyers is driving salaries skyward, according to a survey by recruitment consultancy Quarry Dougall. It says that as well as offering attractive salaries to secure the right candidate, firms also have to demonstrate they offer the best long term career option. Banking, corporate and property work continue to be the practice areas attracting the highest salaries due to a shortage of lawyers, particularly in the one to four-years post-qualification level. However, salaries are up across all disciplines and at all levels. Quarry Dougall also confirms reports in The Lawyer in late 1996 that US firms are offering remuneration packages beyond most young British lawyers' dreams.