Magic circle firm Linklaters is to pay newly qualified solicitors (NQs) at least £100,000, the firm announced today. Last week, Linklaters was left as the only magic circle firm to offer NQs less than £100,000 after Allen & Overy boosted its pay package.

Linklaters associates, who previously received £83,000, will now be paid £100,000, made up of a base salary plus a discretionary performance bonus. The firm said that ‘top NQ performers’ will receive more.

All five magic circle firms now pay NQs a minimum of £100,000. City firm Macfarlanes also announced today that its NQs will enjoy six-figure packages.