Are you looking for the complete UK judiciary salary structure in 2025, including pay details for judges, clerks, and court staff? You are not alone. Many professionals and aspiring legal workers want to know how much the judiciary pays and what salaries to expect at different levels.
The UK judiciary includes a wide range of roles from senior judges at the Supreme Court to clerks, ushers, and administrative staff who keep the courts running. The pay structure is set nationally, often based on grade, responsibility, and the type of court.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the UK judiciary salary structure in 2025, including starting pay, progression, allowances, and tips to maximise your earnings. Whether you are preparing for a career in the legal sector or just curious about salaries, this article gives you clear, detailed, and practical information.
Why Understanding the Judiciary Salary Structure Matters
Knowing how the salary structure works is essential because:
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It helps you plan your career and set realistic expectations.
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It helps you prepare for exams and interviews with confidence about potential earnings.
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It allows you to negotiate effectively if moving between roles.
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It gives you a clear understanding of how promotion and seniority affect pay.
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It helps you choose which roles in the judiciary might fit your financial goals.
How Much Do Judiciary Employees Earn in the UK in 2025?
In 2025, salaries for judiciary employees in the UK vary widely depending on the role:
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Entry-level court staff start from about £20,000–£25,000 per year.
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Clerks and legal advisors can earn between £25,000–£45,000 per year.
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Judges’ salaries start at around £100,000 per year, rising to over £270,000 per year for senior judges.
UK Judiciary Salary Structure Explained
The UK judiciary salary structure covers three broad groups:
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Judges
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Court Clerks & Legal Advisors
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Court Administrative & Support Staff
Each group has different grades and pay scales, which we explain in detail below.
Judges’ Salaries in the UK 2025
Judges in the UK are appointed at different levels of the court system. Their salaries are determined by judicial salary groups set by the Ministry of Justice.
Judicial Salary Groups (JSG)
Judicial roles are divided into JSG 1–8, with JSG 1 being the most senior and highest-paid.
Senior Judges (JSG 1–3)
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Supreme Court Justices (JSG 1): £270,000 – £290,000/year
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Lord Chief Justice (JSG 1): £280,000 – £300,000/year
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Court of Appeal Judges (JSG 2): £230,000 – £250,000/year
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High Court Judges (JSG 3): £190,000 – £210,000/year
Circuit Judges (JSG 5–6)
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Circuit Judges (JSG 5): £145,000 – £160,000/year
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Recorder (part-time judges): Paid per day (approx. £700–£900/day)
District Judges (JSG 7–8)
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District Judges (Magistrates’ Courts) (JSG 7): £120,000 – £135,000/year
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Deputy District Judges: Paid per day (approx. £450–£550/day)
Court Clerks & Legal Advisors Salaries 2025
Court clerks and legal advisors are crucial for court operations. They provide procedural and legal guidance during hearings.
Typical Roles & Pay:
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Assistant Clerk: £21,000 – £26,000/year
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Court Clerk: £25,000 – £35,000/year
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Senior Clerk/Team Leader: £35,000 – £45,000/year
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Legal Advisor (Magistrates’ Courts): £30,000 – £45,000/year
Legal advisors who are fully qualified and experienced can earn higher pay, often exceeding £50,000 depending on location.
Court Administrative & Support Staff Salaries 2025
These staff members handle the day-to-day administration of courts.
Typical Roles & Pay:
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Court Usher: £20,000 – £23,000/year
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Administrative Officer: £21,000 – £27,000/year
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Administrative Team Leader: £28,000 – £35,000/year
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Listing Officer: £25,000 – £32,000/year
Salaries at this level depend on grade (AO, EO, HEO, SEO), experience, and sometimes location (London roles often include a London Weighting Allowance).
Summary Table: UK Judiciary Salary Structure 2025
| Role / Group | Salary Range (£) |
|---|---|
| Supreme Court Justice (JSG 1) | 270,000 – 290,000 |
| Lord Chief Justice (JSG 1) | 280,000 – 300,000 |
| Court of Appeal Judge (JSG 2) | 230,000 – 250,000 |
| High Court Judge (JSG 3) | 190,000 – 210,000 |
| Circuit Judge (JSG 5) | 145,000 – 160,000 |
| District Judge (JSG 7) | 120,000 – 135,000 |
| Recorder (part-time) | 700 – 900/day |
| Deputy District Judge (part-time) | 450 – 550/day |
| Legal Advisor | 30,000 – 45,000 |
| Senior Clerk | 35,000 – 45,000 |
| Court Clerk | 25,000 – 35,000 |
| Assistant Clerk | 21,000 – 26,000 |
| Court Usher | 20,000 – 23,000 |
| Administrative Officer | 21,000 – 27,000 |
| Administrative Team Leader | 28,000 – 35,000 |
Factors Affecting Judiciary Salaries
Several factors determine salaries in the UK judiciary:
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Role & Grade: Higher grades and judicial groups earn significantly more.
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Experience: Seniority and years of service can lead to higher pay.
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Location: Roles in London and high-cost areas include extra allowances.
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Full-time vs Part-time: Part-time judges and clerks are paid pro-rata.
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Specialisation: Judges or advisors with specialised legal expertise may earn more.
Allowances & Benefits
Judiciary employees also enjoy various allowances and benefits:
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London Weighting: For those working in London, typically an extra £4,000–£6,000/year.
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Pensions: Generous public sector pensions.
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Holidays: 25–30 days of annual leave, plus public holidays.
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Training & Development: Funded professional development opportunities.
Career Progression in the UK Judiciary
One of the advantages of working in the judiciary is the clear path for progression:
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Clerks and admin staff can advance into senior administrative or legal advisor roles.
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Legal advisors can apply for part-time judge positions and later full-time judicial appointments.
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Judges can progress through the judicial salary groups to senior positions.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Judiciary Salaries 2025
What is the starting salary for a judge in the UK?
District Judges at the lowest full-time level earn about £120,000/year in 2025.
How much do clerks earn in UK courts?
Court clerks generally earn between £25,000–£35,000/year depending on grade and experience.
Do court staff get London Weighting?
Yes, employees working in London receive an additional allowance to offset higher living costs.
Can legal advisors become judges?
Yes, experienced legal advisors can apply to become deputy district judges or recorders.
How much does a Supreme Court Justice earn?
In 2025, Supreme Court Justices earn around £270,000–£290,000/year.
How to Increase Your Earnings in the Judiciary
If you want to earn more in the UK judiciary, consider these tips:
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Aim for promotion by gaining experience and qualifications.
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Apply for positions in London or high-cost areas to receive allowances.
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Take on part-time judicial roles alongside your main job.
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Specialise in areas of law that are in high demand.
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Engage in continued professional development and training.
Final Thoughts: UK Judiciary Salary Structure 2025 — Judges, Clerks & Court Staff
The UK judiciary salary structure in 2025 reflects the importance and responsibility of these roles within society. From court ushers to Supreme Court Justices, each position has a clear grade and pay band. Salaries start at around £20,000/year for entry-level support staff and can exceed £300,000/year for the most senior judges.
With good benefits, clear progression, and competitive pay, a career in the judiciary offers stability and financial security. Whether you are starting as a clerk or aiming for a high judicial office, understanding the salary structure helps you plan your career effectively and make informed decisions.