Law graduates entering the job market can expect a starting salary of less than £25,000, according to figures published by a recruitment business. On average, law graduates are paid £24,492 in their first job after leaving university. Aspiring lawyers can expect to be paid less than economics and maths graduates, who receive £29,068 and £25,896 respectively, according to Bridgewater Resources. 

Dentistry and chemical engineering graduates are the highest earners after leaving university, enjoying average salaries of £34,840 and £31,824 respectively.

Veterinary medicine and general engineering graduates follow close behind, with salaries just shy of £30,000. In contrast, those who have degrees in English, drama or creative writing can expect less £20,000.

Starting salaries for lawyers cover a wide spectrum. While some barristers chambers pay pupils over £70,000, others pay less than £25,000. Meanwhile, first-year trainees at magic circle firms receive well over £40,000.

Earlier this year, the Law Society announced a 2.6% increase in its recommended salary for trainee solicitors, to £22,121 in London and £19,619 outside the capital.