Entry-level Lawyer (Attorney) salary in South Africa
What first-year lawyer (attorney)s actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.
Starting pay
R25 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R45 000/mo
Hourly rate
R145–R260/hr
What you'll earn as a junior lawyer (attorney)
- • Most first-year lawyer (attorney)s start between R25 000 and R45 000 per month.
- • That works out to roughly R145–R260 per hour on a 40-hour week.
- • Education path: LLB + 2 years articles.
- • Typical experience needed at entry: Articles + board exams + admission.
- • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R70 000/month.
From entry to mid-level
Within 3–5 years, mid-level lawyer (attorney) pay rises to around R70 000/month - a 180% increase over your starting salary.
See full Lawyer (Attorney) salary guide →