Italy has a long and proud legal tradition, but how much do lawyers actually earn? If you’re considering a legal career or you’re just curious about the earning potential of the profession in Italy, this guide breaks down everything you need to know. From entry-level salaries to high-level earnings in top law firms, let’s explore the real numbers behind the robes.

How Much Are Lawyers Paid in Italy?

Entry-Level Salaries: How Much Do Young Lawyers Earn?

Newly graduated lawyers in Italy start as “praticanti avvocati”—apprentice lawyers who must complete a training period before taking the bar exam. Unfortunately, this stage is not known for its generous pay.

Typical monthly stipend: €300–€800 (often unpaid)
Duration: 18–24 months

Once they pass the bar, young lawyers (0–3 years’ experience) can expect a gross salary between:

€15,000 and €25,000 per year

Mid-Career Earnings: The Climb Begins

As lawyers gain experience and develop a client base, their income starts to grow.

5–10 years’ experience: €30,000 to €60,000 per year
Corporate or specialized law: up to €80,000 per year

Specializations like tax law, intellectual property, and corporate litigation generally pay more than general civil or criminal law.

Location Makes a Big Difference

Salaries vary significantly based on location. Major Italian cities offer higher pay due to demand and the presence of international firms.

Top Paying Cities:

Milan: €70,000 – €150,000+
Rome: €40,000 – €120,000
Florence, Bologna, Turin: Competitive but slightly lower

In smaller towns or rural areas, a solo practitioner might earn:

€20,000 to €30,000 per year

Public vs Private Sector Lawyer Salaries

Lawyers working in the public sector (e.g., municipalities, courts, public agencies) have fixed salaries, generally lower than private sector counterparts.

Legal advisor in public administration: €25,000 – €40,000
Magistrate or judge: Starts at €40,000, rising to €100,000+ with experience

In contrast, in-house lawyers for private companies may earn between:

€50,000 and €100,000+ per year

Top Lawyers and Big Law Firms: High Earnings

At the top of the pyramid are partners at large or international firms, especially in Milan.

Top corporate lawyers: €150,000 – €500,000+ per year
These lawyers often:
- Handle international contracts or high-stakes litigation
- Manage legal teams
- Possess over 15 years of experience

Freelancers and Solo Practitioners: Unpredictable But Promising

Many Italian lawyers choose to work independently or run small studios. This gives flexibility, but income can vary greatly.

Some earn under €20,000/year
Successful niche lawyers: €100,000+ per year

Keep in mind, freelancers must cover:

Taxes and pension contributions (Cassa Forense)
Office rent and employee costs
Marketing and client acquisition

Side Incomes: Teaching, Consulting, Publishing

Many lawyers boost their income through additional legal work such as:

Teaching law or giving lectures
Publishing books or legal commentary
Legal consulting for businesses
Working as mediators or arbitrators

These activities can bring in €5,000 to €20,000+ per year depending on the individual’s reputation.

Conclusion: The Legal Salary Landscape in Italy

So, how much are lawyers paid in Italy? The short answer: it varies widely.

Key Takeaways:

Junior lawyers: €15,000–€25,000/year
Mid-level professionals: €30,000–€60,000/year
Top lawyers in big cities: €100,000–€500,000+/year
Freelancers: highly variable, from low earnings to high six figures
Public sector: stable but generally lower salaries

In the end, becoming a well-paid lawyer in Italy takes years of experience, specialization, networking, and often, a presence in a major city.

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