Launching your career in entry-level litigation can be both exciting and challenging, especially for those with 0-3 years of experience. At DAGA Legal LLP, a boutique law firm with a wealth of experience spanning over 66 years, new lawyers will find excellent opportunities to develop their skills in a supportive environment.
Key Responsibilities in Entry-Level Litigation
As part of your entry-level litigation role, your primary responsibilities will include:
Legal Research: Conducting thorough research on legal precedents, statutes, and regulations to craft effective case strategies.
Drafting Documents: Preparing various legal documents such as pleadings, motions, affidavits, and contracts, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
Staying Updated in Entry-Level Litigation
To excel in your entry-level litigation position, it’s crucial to stay informed about changes in the law, as this knowledge impacts ongoing cases and client advice.
Courtroom Experience for Entry-Level Litigation Lawyers
In the courtroom, your role as an entry-level litigation lawyer will expand as you:
Assist Senior Counsel: Play a vital role during hearings and manage procedural matters.
Organize Evidence: Gather and organize evidence, witness statements, and other pertinent information to build a strong case.
Support Trial Preparation: Help draft arguments and opening/closing statements under the guidance of experienced lawyers.
A Supportive Environment at DAGA Legal LLP
DAGA Legal LLP prides itself on its diverse team, combining the vigor of young professionals with the wisdom of seasoned lawyers. This collaborative environment fosters growth and emphasizes teamwork in achieving successful outcomes for clients.
If you’re ready to pursue entry-level litigation opportunities, DAGA Legal LLP offers the ideal platform to kickstart your legal career.
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.)
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
Tier
Monthly Salary (Fresher)
Annual CTC (Approx)
Bonus / Perks
Tier-1
₹1.1 – ₹1.6 Lakhs
₹12 – ₹20 LPA
Performance bonus, medical, phones, club memberships
Tier-2
₹50K – ₹90K
₹6 – ₹11 LPA
Some bonus, fewer perks
Tier-3
₹15K – ₹40K
₹2 – ₹5 LPA
Limited 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.
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 Type
Average Starting CTC
Growth Potential
Law Firm (Tier-1)
₹12–₹20 LPA
Fast-paced, higher burnout
In-house (Corporate)
₹6–₹10 LPA
Slower growth, better work-life balance
LPO/KPO Jobs
₹3–₹6 LPA
Limited legal work, more clerical
Litigation (First Gen)
₹5K–₹20K/month
High uncertainty initially, can grow over years
📈 Career Progression in Law Firms (Promotions & Salary Hikes)
Position
Time to Achieve
Avg Salary
Associate
Fresher
₹12–₹16 LPA
Senior Associate
4–5 years
₹20–₹30 LPA
Principal Associate
6–8 years
₹30–₹50 LPA
Partner
10–12 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.
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