Flexible hours, supplemental income, remote opportunities, and family are just some of the reasons experienced lawyers are deliberately choosing freelancing as a path forward (1).
Freelancing, propelled by new technologies and a growth in remote work arrangements, is on the rise across all industries, and the legal field is no exception. Data from the US shows that 51% of law firms are using freelance lawyers, also known as contract lawyers, as an alternative staffing strategy (2). Filling this need, more and more lawyers are turning to freelancing, as a deliberate choice, seeking the benefits freelancing has to offer.
So, why are experienced lawyers giving up the security and comfort of a traditional job for freelancing? Hint, not because they can’t find a ‘real’ job!
Flexibility & Freedom
The most common reason we hear from lawyers on why they started freelancing is flexibility. It comes as no surprise that many lawyers are seeking a better work-life balance, and freelancing offers just that. As a freelancer, you get to work as much or as little as you want, leaving time to travel, connect with family and friends, or focus on other hobbies and interests.
Flexibility also comes in the form of choosing what type of work you want to take on. Many lawyers love the research and writing aspects of the job, but hate going to court or conducting discoveries. This may inspire them to pursue freelancing, allowing them to only offer the services they love and excel at, and turn down the work that does not make them happy.
Family
This flexibility is sought after by those who want to spend more time with family, often the case for lawyers with aging parents, sick relatives, or young kids. The typical lawyer schedule, involving late nights, and long hours, may not be possible for all, but luckily freelancing is there as an option so that lawyers do not have to stop practicing entirely.
Sole-Practitioners – Hybrid work
Sole-practitioners will also turn to freelancing as a secondary income. This hybrid work arrangement is an excellent income supplement, particularly for new sole-practitioners as they grow their practice. It can also help new lawyers network and meet other lawyers in their area of law.
Change of location
Another perk of freelancing is that it is generally remote work! Many lawyers will turn to freelancing if they are relocating to a town where traditional law jobs are harder to find, such as rural areas. Others may be moving to another country but would like to continue working for clients in Canada. Luckily, freelance lawyers can work from anywhere with a solid WIFI connection, whether that be rural Ontario or the south of France.
At Flex Legal, we have helped dozens of experienced lawyers, seeking more flexibility and freedom, transition to freelancing. Interested in learning more about being a freelance lawyer? Check out our resource page for more information. If you are ready to get started, Join Us today!
(1) A freelance lawyer works on a contract or project-by-project basis for another lawyer or law firm, rather than directly representing clients. For a more detailed look at the difference between a sole-practitioner and a freelance lawyer, please see our article here.
(2) See 2020 Law Firms in Transition, An Altman Weil Flash Survey : https://altmanweil.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Law-Firms-in-Transition-2020-An-Altman-Weil-Flash-Survey-.pdf
By Maggie Piper, Client Services Manager
