Salary at Duncan Cotterill

The Grads who live in Auckland and Wellington get paid more than Grads who live in Queenstown. I find this difficult to understand because Queenstown cost of living is just as high as those places.

The graduates in other offices within the company get paid higher than we do. The reasoning is likely cost of living and the market which does make sense but where we are cost of living is quite high so I think if they are wanting to attract the best candidates to this area this could be something to be looked at. In terms of bonuses, I do not think for the lower levels there are bonuses, but we did receive a clothing allowance as a graduate and our profs and admission was paid for by the firm. I know there are other firms that pay a lot more, but the work life balance is not as good, so it depends what people prioritise.

We don't make a lot for our first few years in the job. However, that is expected. I do not believe we do bonuses for my level.

My pay is sufficient, however I am aware it is lower compared to other firms.

I feel that my pay is appropriate for someone at my level. I have some mates who get paid more at larger firms, but that is a pretty small pool of firms. DC annually alters pay to stay in line with market rates.

Our pay (salary) is in line with other firms of a similar size. There is a TOIL (overtime) policy but it is very rare for someone to meet the requirements.

Pay is at a competitive level compared to the rest of the market. We don't get end of year bonuses per se but did receive many care packages and gifts over the COVID-19 lockdowns which I was very much grateful for as it made working over lockdown that much easier. At Christmas we're usually given vouchers which are also much appreciated given that time of year can be very expensive.

I think there is a good pay progression, i am not sure how bonuses operate.

Very good

Although the graduate pay is similar to other firms, I do find that it is difficult to live (let alone save) on the current salary, especially living in an expensive city.

The pay I receive is standard for my position. We do not receive bonuses.

Normal for the industry.

Our pay is generally lower than other firms of a similar nature/size. We did receive an unexpected increase in 2021.

The salary offered is competitive in the market but overall there is an impression amongst younger solicitors in the profession that overall we are undervalued for our work.

Pay is great but perhaps bonuses could be more readily available

I do think the starting salary is rather low, however I understand that it does increase steadily.

The firm is in line with the market and ensure they are current every year

Ubers for work related things

The parental leave policy seems quite generous. We do not get the other above listed benefits. We also get to go to some events for free.

Ubers home from work events are a nice touch. Coffee catch ups are always good.

Social functions, access to health insurance, fruit, coffee and tea.

Weekly drinks.

Work uber account, clothing allowance, birthday and admission leave.

Birthday leave, great social events

The work life balance the firm is able to accommodate I think is the best perk.

Pay for prof's and a $2-3k allowance for doing it before starting work

Free fruit and crackers and the wardrobe allowance starting off is great.

There are a number of social events which are put on and you can attend for a small amount of $$.

Social club who plan lots of fun events.

Good coffee.

Taxis after social events, free fruit and coffee machine.

subsidised health insurance and free coffee

Clothing allowance (as a grad), occasional travel (transport included), social club/firm events, sometimes free tickets to basketball etc., flexible working.

Being able to leave at a reasonable time is the main bonus. We also have fun firm events.