Tier-1, Tier-2 & Tier-3 Law Firm Salaries in India (2025): A Detailed Breakdown & NLU vs Non-NLU Comparison

If you’re planning to pursue a career in law, one of the most common questions is — “Kitna paisa milega?” In this blog, we break down law firm salaries in India across Tier-1, Tier-2, and Tier-3 law firms, compare NLU vs Non-NLU placements, and help you understand the real scenario of legal careers in India.


🧩 What Are Tier-1, Tier-2, and Tier-3 Law Firms?

Before we dive into salary figures, let’s understand the classification:

📌 Tier-1 Law Firms

These are the top corporate law firms in India dealing with high-profile clients, international deals, and massive transactions. They usually hire from top NLUs (like NLSIU, NALSAR, NUJS, etc.)

Examples:


📌 Tier-2 Law Firms

Smaller than Tier-1 but still reputed firms, often handling regional or sector-specific legal work.

Examples:

  • IndusLaw
  • Kochhar & Co
  • Anand and Anand (IP-specialized)
  • HSA Advocates

📌 Tier-3 Law Firms

These are boutique or smaller firms, often focused on litigation or a specific practice area. Many of them are run by experienced lawyers but may not pay on par with bigger names.


💸 Salary Breakdown: Tier-wise Comparison

TierMonthly Salary (Fresher)Annual CTC (Approx)Bonus / Perks
Tier-1₹1.1 – ₹1.6 Lakhs₹12 – ₹20 LPAPerformance bonus, medical, phones, club memberships
Tier-2₹50K – ₹90K₹6 – ₹11 LPASome bonus, fewer perks
Tier-3₹15K – ₹40K₹2 – ₹5 LPALimited or no perks

Note: These figures can vary depending on city, law firm, and candidate’s college + internship experience.


🎓 Does College Matter? NLU vs Non-NLU Placements

📚 Top NLUs (Tier-1 NLUs)

  • Average CTC: ₹12 – ₹16 LPA
  • Top Offers: ₹20 – ₹23 LPA (Domestic), even ₹28–₹35 LPA (International)
  • Placement Rate: 80%+
  • Recruiters: CAM, SAM, AZB, L&L, Khaitan, Trilegal, etc.

Why NLUs Get Better Offers:

  • Structured placement cells (Recruitment Coordination Committees – RCC)
  • Long-term relationships with top firms
  • Competitive peer group
  • Better internship exposure

🏫 Tier-3 Law Colleges & Non-NLUs

  • Average CTC: ₹2 – ₹6 LPA
  • Top Offers: ₹7 – ₹10 LPA (very rare, mostly through networking)
  • Placement Rate: 10–30%
  • Recruiters: Local firms, litigation offices, startups, LPOs

Challenges:

  • No structured placement cells
  • Lack of alumni network in top firms
  • Less exposure to corporate internships

🛠️ In-House Legal Jobs vs Law Firms: What Pays Better?

Job TypeAverage Starting CTCGrowth Potential
Law Firm (Tier-1)₹12–₹20 LPAFast-paced, higher burnout
In-house (Corporate)₹6–₹10 LPASlower growth, better work-life balance
LPO/KPO Jobs₹3–₹6 LPALimited legal work, more clerical
Litigation (First Gen)₹5K–₹20K/monthHigh uncertainty initially, can grow over years

📈 Career Progression in Law Firms (Promotions & Salary Hikes)

PositionTime to AchieveAvg Salary
AssociateFresher₹12–₹16 LPA
Senior Associate4–5 years₹20–₹30 LPA
Principal Associate6–8 years₹30–₹50 LPA
Partner10–12 years₹60 LPA – ₹2 Cr+

💡 How to Get Into Tier-1 Firms?

For NLU Students:

  • Focus on top internships (Tier-1 firms)
  • Maintain a good CGPA (top 10–20%)
  • Get published (articles, blogs)
  • Be active in moots, debates, and research

For Non-NLU Students:

  • Intern strategically (start local, then build up)
  • Network with lawyers on LinkedIn
  • Do extra certifications (M&A, IBC, IP Law, etc.)
  • Try for lateral entry after 1–2 years of experience

🧠 Conclusion: Is It All About the Money?

While salary is an important factor, don’t choose law just for money. Top-tier firms may pay well but come with intense pressure, long hours, and burnout. Litigation or academia may start slow but offer different rewards.

Whether you’re in an NLU or a Non-NLU, your internship experience, networking, and consistent skill-building will define your future. Remember: Law rewards patience.


FAQs

1. Can a student from a private law college join a Tier-1 firm?

Yes, but it’s tough. You need extraordinary internships, recommendations, and visibility.

2. Is ₹1 lakh/month the highest a fresher can earn?

No, some international firms and top domestic offers can even go up to ₹1.8 lakh/month.

3. How many years does it take to become a partner?

Usually 10–12 years in a firm, depending on performance and firm policy.

4. Do law firms offer work-from-home?

Post-COVID, many offer hybrid options, but most Tier-1 firms prefer in-office roles.


If you liked this blog, share it with your law school friends! For more such content, visit LawDrishti.com – your ultimate guide for legal careers, notes, and internships.


👉 Also Read: Khaitan & Co Salary: 2025-26 Graduate Offer Breakdown

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NUJS National Disability Law Moot 2025 – India’s 1st Moot on Disability Rights

NUJS National Disability Law Moot 2025 – A Historic Step Toward Inclusive Legal Advocacy

The NUJS National Disability Law Moot 2025 is India’s first national-level moot court competition dedicated solely to the legal rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs). Organized by the prestigious West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata, this competition sets a new precedent in legal education by focusing exclusively on disability law.

With a history of hosting top-tier events such as the NUJS-HSF Moot, ADR Mediation Competition, and Para-Invicta, NUJS continues its tradition of promoting inclusivity and justice with this pioneering initiative.

What Is the NUJS National Disability Law Moot 2025 About?

This moot is designed to:

  • Encourage legal scholarship in disability law
  • Highlight critical themes like workplace discrimination, inclusive education, and accessibility
  • Create a national platform for future legal professionals to explore and argue real-world issues under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

The competition includes:

  • Memorial Qualification Round
  • Offline Oral Rounds at the WBNUJS campus in Kolkata
  • Researcher’s Test for qualifying teams

Key Dates and Deadlines

EventDate
Registration OpensMay 30, 2025
Clarification DeadlineJune 25, 2025
Registration ClosesJune 30, 2025
Memorial SubmissionJuly 12, 2025
Oral Round ShortlistJuly 21, 2025
Oral Rounds at WBNUJSAugust 21–24, 2025

Eligibility & Team Composition

  • Open to undergraduate law students in any Indian university
  • 2 to 3 members per team
  • Cross-college teams allowed
  • No cap on the number of teams per institution
  • Postgraduate students are not eligible

Awards & Recognition

The NUJS National Disability Law Moot 2025 offers extensive awards, including:

  • Winning, Runners-Up & Second Runners-Up Teams
  • Best Advocate (Prelims and Overall)
  • Best Memorials (Petitioner & Respondent)
  • Best Researcher & Runner-Up
  • Certificates for Semi- and Quarter-Finalists
  • Participation certificates for all teams

Registration Fees & Optional Accommodation

  • Memo Round Fee: ₹2,500/team
    • ₹2,100 for teams with at least one PwD participant
  • Oral Round Fee (for shortlisted teams): ₹2,000
  • Accommodation (optional): ₹5,500/team (August 21–24)

Payment Details:

  • Account Name: Student Juridical Association
  • Account No: 520101246976299
  • IFSC Code: UBIN0906638
  • Bank: Union Bank, NUJS Branch, Salt Lake, Kolkata

Registration Process

  1. Fill the official Google Form: https://forms.gle/sZHKXriWTy4EEfGL8
  2. Email the following to nationaldisabilitymoot@nujs.edu:
    • Names, Years, and Institutions of team members
    • College ID Cards
    • Payment screenshot

Contact Details

  • Email: nationaldisabilitymoot@nujs.edu
  • Chair: Kinjal Das – +91 75959 65675
  • Deputy Chairs:
    • Anushka Maji – +91 86174 78308
    • Saarthak Samadder – +91 94330 48880
  • Board of Directors:
    • Ritika Amlajiya – +91 80943 45186
    • Shubhankar Singha – +91 96797 30493

Final Words

The NUJS National Disability Law Moot 2025 is not just another moot—it’s a platform for change. By promoting awareness of the challenges faced by PwDs through legal debate, WBNUJS is nurturing future lawyers who will lead the way in accessibility and justice.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of history. Register today and join us in Kolkata for a groundbreaking legal experience.


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Internship Opportunity at ZEUS Law Associates – December 2024

EUS Law Associates, a prestigious law firm based in New Delhi, is well-known for its expertise in business, commercial, and arbitration law. The firm has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality legal solutions. Now, in December 2024, ZEUS Law Associates is offering an incredible opportunity for law students to gain hands-on experience through a 4-week internship program.

Let’s explore the details of this exciting opportunity further.

Internship Overview

This internship provides a valuable chance for students in their 4th or 5th year of law school. Interns will work closely with experienced lawyers and immerse themselves in the dynamic world of legal practice. ZEUS Law Associates prides itself on delivering top-notch legal services. As a result, you will be part of a thriving legal team, which will offer substantial learning experiences.

  • Mode: Physical (in-person)
  • Location: ZEUS Law Associates, New Delhi
  • Duration: 4 weeks (December 2024)
  • Stipend: Paid (discussed upon selection)

Key Responsibilities

Interns at ZEUS Law Associates will be exposed to various tasks that help them gain practical legal experience. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Legal Research: You will conduct research on a variety of legal issues, including business and commercial law. In addition, you may be assigned special topics by supervising lawyers, allowing you to deepen your understanding.
  • Drafting Legal Documents: Interns will assist in drafting contracts, legal opinions, and case briefs. This hands-on drafting experience is essential for developing real legal skills. Furthermore, it gives you exposure to real-world legal scenarios.
  • Client Meetings and Court Hearings: Interns may get the opportunity to attend client meetings and observe court hearings. This, in turn, provides you with real-world exposure to how legal processes unfold.
  • Learning from Experts: You will work under the guidance of skilled legal professionals. As a result, you’ll gain insights into the functioning of a high-performing law firm, which is invaluable for building your legal career.

Why Choose ZEUS Law Associates?

There are several reasons why this internship is a great opportunity for aspiring legal professionals:

  • Hands-on Legal Experience: Interns will gain practical experience by working on real cases, conducting legal research, and drafting legal documents. Moreover, this exposure will help you build the skills necessary for your future career.
  • Courtroom Exposure: You will have the chance to attend court sessions and client meetings. Therefore, you’ll gain a first-hand look at the legal system in action.
  • Networking Opportunities: Building connections with experienced lawyers and other interns is a significant benefit. As a result, these relationships can prove invaluable in supporting your career down the road.
  • Certificate of Completion: Upon successfully completing the program, you will receive a certificate. Consequently, this certification will enhance your resume and boost your career prospects.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this internship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Be in their 4th or 5th year of law school.
  • Possess strong research, analytical, and writing skills.
  • Demonstrate a genuine interest in the legal field and a willingness to take on responsibilities.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for this internship at ZEUS Law Associates, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Submit Your Resume: Send your updated resume to pragya.gupta@zeus.firm.in, highlighting your academic achievements and relevant legal experience.
  2. Write a Cover Letter: Attach a cover letter that explains your interest in the internship and why you believe you’re a suitable candidate. Additionally, mention your availability for the program.
  3. Use a Proper Subject Line: Make sure the email subject line reads “Internship Application – [Your Full Name]” to ensure it is easily noticed and not misplaced.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is 20th November 2024. However, since positions are limited and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, applying early will increase your chances of selection.

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