From 1 June 2025, the recommended rate for trainees in Scotland will be £24,840 for first-year trainees and £28,850 for second-year trainees.

The increase represents an additional £1,190 per annum for a first-year trainee and an additional £1,370 per annum for a second-year trainee.

The rates remain discretionary, with employers permitted to pay above or below the recommendation as long as the wage meets the National Living Wage set by the Living Wage Foundation.

Traineeships that do not meet the minimum Living Wage requirement will not be accepted for registration by the Law Society of Scotland.

Law Society of Scotland president Susan Murray said: “The recommendations we have set this year reflect ongoing cost-of-living pressures facing both trainees and employers, and the wider picture of wages growth, particularly in the profession.

“We understand that some employers are facing significant financial strain, however we also need to be mindful that cost-of-living pressures are felt more intensely by those on modest salaries.

“Trainee solicitors are the future of our profession and have chosen this path over a number of other career options available to them as law graduates. It is imperative that they see Scotland’s legal sector as a viable career choice.”

She added: “The Society also wishes to make clear that it expects all trainee employers to cover the cost of their trainees’ required annual CPD.

“We have information that this is not happening for a small number of trainees, adding further to the financial pressures that they face while on modest incomes.”