Looking for Legal Jobs in Devon? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to finding legal jobs in Devon, you might feel overwhelmed by the options, unsure where to begin, or even wonder what the local legal job market looks like. Fortunately, you’re not alone. Many legal professionals—whether fresh graduates or seasoned solicitors—often ask the same questions.

What kind of legal jobs are available in Devon?
Which firms are hiring?
Is Devon a good place to grow a legal career?
What qualifications do I need to stand out?

In this blog, we’ll answer these questions and more. We’ll explore the types of legal roles in Devon, the current hiring trends, top firms to look out for, and how The Legists can help you land your next legal position.

Let’s dive right in.

Why Consider Legal Jobs in Devon?

Devon isn’t just a stunning county with beaches, moorlands, and historical towns. It also offers a thriving legal market. Over the past decade, Devon has grown as a regional legal hub, with both national and independent law firms setting up or expanding their presence here.

If you’re tired of the stress and high costs of big cities like London or Manchester, Devon could be the peaceful yet professionally rewarding alternative you’ve been looking for.

Besides the lifestyle perks, Devon offers:

• A growing demand for legal professionals

• Competitive salaries that reflect regional and national averages

• A chance to work on meaningful legal matters ranging from property and family law to corporate and criminal defense

• Opportunities in both public and private sectors

What Types of Legal Jobs Are Available in Devon?

Whether you’re aiming for a role in litigation, corporate law, family law, or even compliance, Devon offers a variety of options.

1. Solicitor Roles

Solicitors in Devon are in high demand across several specialisms. You’ll find opportunities in:

• Property law (both commercial and residential)

• Employment law

• Family and divorce law

• Wills, trusts, and probate

• Criminal defense

• Corporate and commercial law

Small boutique firms and larger regional offices alike are regularly hiring skilled solicitors. If you’re qualified and ready to work in a client-facing role, the options are vast.

2. Paralegal and Legal Assistant Roles

Paralegals and legal assistants play a critical role in supporting solicitors and managing caseloads. These roles are perfect for graduates or those transitioning into law from related sectors.

If you’re just starting your legal career, Devon offers a wealth of opportunities to gain practical experience. Many law firms here also offer training contracts to exceptional paralegals.

3. Legal Executive and Chartered Legal Executive Jobs

Legal executives enjoy career paths that parallel solicitors, especially in smaller firms or niche practice areas. Devon firms often value CILEx qualifications and real-world experience over traditional university routes, opening doors to more professionals.

4. In-House Legal Roles

In-house legal jobs are becoming more common in Devon, especially as companies grow and decentralize. Industries such as renewable energy, real estate, and technology have created a demand for in-house counsel, legal advisors, and contract managers.

Top Locations in Devon for Legal Jobs

Devon is a large county, and some areas are especially rich with legal job opportunities.

Exeter

As the county’s capital and largest city, Exeter leads the way in legal hiring. Major regional and national firms have offices here, and in-house legal jobs are also concentrated in this business hub.

Plymouth

Plymouth hosts a range of firms, from criminal defense specialists to commercial and property law practices. It’s also home to public sector opportunities within the local government and NHS trusts.

Torquay and Paignton

These towns offer more community-based practices, focusing on family law, conveyancing, and probate. They may not be as fast-paced as Exeter or Plymouth, but they provide excellent work-life balance and community involvement.

What Qualifications Do You Need for Legal Jobs in Devon?

To stand out in the Devon legal job market, you should:

• Hold a qualifying law degree (LLB) or have completed the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)

• Complete the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)

• Gain relevant experience through internships, training contracts, or paralegal roles

However, qualifications alone aren’t enough. Devon firms value soft skills just as much. Communication, client care, and time management often separate the good candidates from the great ones.

If you’re applying for more senior roles, employers will also look for a proven track record in case handling, client acquisition, and business development.

Top Law Firms Hiring in Devon

Several firms dominate Devon’s legal market, including:

• Foot Anstey LLP – With a strong presence in Exeter, this firm offers roles across corporate, real estate, and private client law.

• Stephens Scown LLP – Known for its employee ownership model, it’s a great firm for those looking for a collaborative culture.

• Wollens Solicitors – Based in South Devon, this firm focuses on private client, family, and litigation law.

• Michelmores LLP – Operating in both Exeter and London, they offer top-tier corporate law services.

These firms aren’t just looking for people to fill roles—they’re looking for future partners, innovators, and leaders.

How Much Do Legal Jobs in Devon Pay?

While legal salaries in Devon may not always match London levels, they still offer competitive compensation. In fact, the lower cost of living means your take-home pay can go much further.

Here’s a rough guide to salaries in Devon:

Bear in mind, firms may offer bonuses, flexible hours, hybrid work, and additional benefits, especially for niche or high-demand legal specialisms.

Why Use a Legal Recruitment Agency Like The Legists?

Finding the right role isn’t always as simple as sending out a few CVs. That’s where we come in.

At The Legists, we do more than just list job ads. We actively work with law firms across Devon to find the best talent and match it to the right opportunities. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a senior solicitor looking for a change, we offer:

• Exclusive job listings you won’t find on public boards

• CV and interview coaching

• Market insights and salary guidance

• Ongoing support even after you land the job

We know the Devon legal market inside and out, and we’re here to help you navigate it with confidence.

Tips for Landing a Legal Job in Devon

Ready to apply? Great! But before you hit “send,” keep these tips in mind:

• Tailor your CV to the firm’s values and job description

• Highlight local connections or your reason for relocating to Devon

• Show your soft skills—especially if you’re applying to client-facing roles

• Follow up after interviews and express genuine interest in the firm’s work

• Leverage your network—legal communities in Devon are tight-knit

Remember, you’re not just applying for a job. You’re applying to become part of a professional community.

Ready to Find Legal Jobs in Devon? Start with The Legists

Legal jobs in Devon aren’t just about ticking boxes—they’re about finding the right cultural fit, the right work-life balance, and the right team to grow with. Devon offers all of this and more. And with The Legists by your side, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Browse our latest legal jobs in Devon, create your candidate profile, and let us help you take the next big step in your legal career.