Are You Paid for All the Hours You Work?

Many law firms have adopted hybrid working models due to Covid-19, promising better work-life balance. But are lawyers truly compensated for all the hours they work? This post explores the reality behind flexible working and billable hours culture.

Home Working Doesn’t Always Mean More Free Time

Lawyers may work longer hours at home to maintain billable targets, despite the appearance of flexibility.
A study by The Lawyer found fewer female parents considering partnership and more associates questioning their future in law, despite remote working.

Billable Hours Still Drive Pay and Performance

There is a near-direct link between hours billed and compensation, making it difficult to reduce recorded hours without affecting income.
Record-high revenues in 2021 put pressure on lawyers to work late and sacrifice downtime.

Flexibility May Be a Façade

Remote and hybrid models may appear attractive, but the underlying expectation to log high billable hours often remains unchanged.

Want More Free Time or Money?

Shifting firms may be more effective than negotiating within your current workplace when seeking more leisure time or a pay rise.
The interview stage is an ideal time to discuss clear billable targets and flexibility expectations from the start.

2021 Legal Job Market Is Strong

According to Vacancysoft, the number of Legal 500 vacancies reached pre-Covid levels, making now a prime time to explore new roles.
Firms in the South East are actively recruiting and adjusting policies on hybrid work and billable targets.

How Chadwick Nott Can Help

Our team has tracked changes in flexible working policies and profit demands across law firms. We offer confidential discussions about your career plan and current market conditions. Contact us today to discuss your priorities and next moves.