Legal Counsel salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Legal Counsel in South Africa is approximately 325,473 ZAR (16,197 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Legal Counsel do?

A legal counsel, also known as an in-house lawyer or corporate counsel, is a professional who provides legal advice and guidance to individuals, organizations, or corporations. They play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, managing legal risks, and protecting the interests of their clients. Legal counsels are responsible for drafting and reviewing contracts, negotiating deals, resolving disputes, and representing clients in legal proceedings. They stay updated on changes in laws and regulations, assess potential legal implications of business decisions, and provide recommendations accordingly. Additionally, they may work closely with external law firms and other stakeholders to manage legal matters effectively. The occupation of legal counsel requires strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as a deep understanding of various areas of law such as corporate law, employment law, intellectual property law, and contract law.

Skills: Legal counsel, In-house lawyer, Corporate counsel, Legal advice, Compliance, Risk management
Job industry: Legal

How much does Legal Counsel make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Legal Counsel a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Legal Counsel is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Legal Counsel?

High salary for Legal Counsel would be somewhere between 358,020 ZAR and 471,936 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Legal Counsel in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 325,473 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 27,123 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 6,259 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 156 ZAR per hour
By working as Legal Counsel a person can save up to 1,079 USD per month or 12,943 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Legal Counsel

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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