The past few years have brought about seismic shifts in the way we work, and the legal industry—long regarded as a bastion of tradition—is no exception. Remote work, once a rarity in law firms, has now become a topic of serious debate. But with hybrid models gaining traction and some firms pushing for a full return to the office, the question remains: will remote work in law firms last?
As a legal recruiter, I’ve had countless conversations with both candidates and law firm partners about this topic. Opinions vary widely, but one thing is clear: the future of remote work in law isn’t black and white—it’s nuanced, and its staying power will depend on a mix of culture, technology, and adaptability.
The Case for Remote Work
The benefits of remote work are undeniable, particularly in a profession where the “billable hour” often dictates work-life balance. Here’s why some believe remote work is here to stay:
Talent Retention and Attraction
In an era where work-life balance has become a non-negotiable for many professionals, remote work serves as a major drawcard. Candidates now prioritise flexibility almost as much as salary, and law firms that offer remote options are seeing a competitive edge in recruitment.
Increased Productivity
Many lawyers have reported higher productivity when working from home. Freed from long commutes and office distractions, they can focus more on drafting contracts, preparing cases, and advising clients without constant interruptions.
Cost Savings
Law firms have also realised cost savings. Smaller office spaces, reduced utility bills, and fewer overheads can significantly improve the bottom line—an appealing prospect for firms looking to remain lean in an ever-competitive market.
Global Collaboration
Remote work has unlocked opportunities for cross-border collaboration like never before. Whether you’re a junior associate in Sydney or a partner in London, technology bridges the gap, making it easier to service global clients.
The Challenges Remote Work Brings
But it’s not all sunshine and seamless Zoom calls. Many firms are grappling with the downsides of a fully remote or hybrid setup:
The Loss of Mentorship
Junior lawyers often learn through osmosis—picking up skills and insights from overhearing conversations or popping into a senior lawyer’s office for advice. Remote work makes these organic learning moments harder to replicate.
Cultural Dilution
Law firms pride themselves on their culture, often built through face-to-face interactions, after-work drinks, and team-building activities. Remote work can make maintaining a cohesive culture more challenging.
Client Expectations
While many clients have embraced virtual meetings, others still value in-person interactions, particularly for high-stakes matters. Some law firms worry that remote work could impact their ability to maintain client relationships.
Burnout and Boundaries
Paradoxically, remote work can blur boundaries between personal and professional life. The pressure to always be “online” has led to increased burnout for some legal professionals.
The Hybrid Model: A Middle Ground?
For many firms, the answer lies in the hybrid model—a balance between remote and in-office work. Some firms are experimenting with flexible policies, allowing lawyers to work remotely a few days a week while still fostering in-office collaboration.
The hybrid model offers the best of both worlds: flexibility for employees and the opportunity to maintain a vibrant office culture. However, it requires clear policies, regular communication, and trust between managers and employees to function effectively.
My Perspective: Adaptability Is Key
From my vantage point as a legal recruiter, the future of remote work in law firms boils down to adaptability. The legal industry is steeped in tradition, but it has also shown an incredible ability to evolve. Who would have thought that court hearings via video link or fully remote depositions would become routine?
As we look to the future, I believe law firms that embrace change will thrive. Whether that means offering fully remote roles, hybrid options, or reimagining how mentorship and culture-building occur in a digital space, flexibility will be the cornerstone.
The Takeaway
Will remote work in law firms last? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Instead, the future will likely see a spectrum of approaches, with firms tailoring their strategies to fit their people, clients, and culture.
For legal professionals, the key is to stay open to change. Whether you prefer the buzz of the office or the quiet focus of your home, the ability to adapt will be your greatest asset in this evolving landscape.
So, what does the future of remote work in law look like to you? Are you team WFH or team office? Let’s continue the conversation—because the future isn’t just something we predict; it’s something we shape.