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.

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🧩 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:

• Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas (SAM)
• Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM)
• AZB & Partners
• Khaitan & Co
• Trilegal
• JSA (J. Sagar Associates)

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📌 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

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📌 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.

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💸 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.

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🎓 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

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🏫 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

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🛠️ 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

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📈 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+

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💡 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

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🧠 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.

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✨ 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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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.

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