Law firms and in-house legal teams are looking for specialists in compliance, data protection, and corporate law. Find out the latest hiring trends, salary benchmarks, and skill requirements for the second half of 2025.

Legal Hiring Trends H2 2025: Skills and Salaries in Demand

Employment Law Expertise

The demand for legal professionals with expertise in employment law will remain strong for the remainder of 2025. Key areas of focus include hybrid working, return-to-office policies, and global talent acquisition. Experienced solicitors in employment litigation, contracts, and compliance will be crucial for ensuring legal clarity and supporting organisational change.

Increase in Contract Roles

There is a noticeable shift towards more contract and interim legal roles. Firms are seeking specialised talent for specific projects, particularly in data compliance and M&A. Remote and hybrid work arrangements continue to dominate, prioritising flexibility in managing workloads.

In-House Demand

More companies are building in-house legal teams to reduce reliance on external counsel.  Significant opportunities exist in key sectors such as technology, fintech, healthcare, and renewable energy. Rapid innovation in technology is driving demand for legal talent familiar with regulations for digital currencies, AI, and online platforms, while healthcare and biotech innovations are creating legal opportunities, particularly in data protection.