The way lawyers work has changed dramatically in recent years, with hybrid and remote working becoming the new norm. However, as firms begin to scale back flexibility, younger legal professionals—particularly those from Gen Z—are pushing back against a full-time return to the office.
According to a recent survey from The Times, only 10% of young people in the UK want to work in the office full-time, with 21% spending most of their working hours at home and 17% wanting to work remotely all the time. However, the same research suggests that Gen Z’s reluctance to be in the office as often as their older peers could impact their future career prospects.
So, where does that leave legal professionals who value flexibility but don’t want to miss out on opportunities for progression? And how should you approach hybrid working when considering your next career move?
What’s Happening in the Legal Sector?
We know from our 2024/25 Annual Report, flexibility is still a major factor for lawyers when deciding whether to stay at or leave a firm:
19% of lawyers who moved firms last year did so to secure greater flexibility, highlighting the ongoing demand for hybrid working.
However, law firms are now offering an average of 2.25 remote days per week, down from 2.7 in 2023 and 3.9 in 2022.
Despite this reduction, firms offering fewer than two remote days per week are now below the market average—suggesting that hybrid working is still expected by most legal professionals.
This means that while some firms are pulling back on flexibility, remote and hybrid working options are still widely available. The key is finding the right balance to support both your career growth and personal preferences.
The Pros and Cons of Hybrid and Office-Based Working
If you’re weighing up your working preferences, here’s what to consider:
The Benefits of Hybrid Working
- Better work-life balance – Reducing commuting time and having more control over your schedule can improve wellbeing.
- Increased focus – Many lawyers find they’re more productive at home without office distractions.
- Flexibility – The ability to structure your day differently can lead to better time management and efficiency.
The Challenges of Hybrid Working
- Reduced visibility – Being in the office allows for organic conversations and face-to-face interactions that can help with career progression.
- Limited networking – Strong professional relationships often develop through in-person collaboration.
- Potential impact on training – Junior and mid-level lawyers benefit from observing senior colleagues and receiving real-time feedback, which can be harder remotely.
While younger professionals may prefer working from home, the research suggests that those who spend more time in the office could gain an advantage when it comes to career progression and long-term prospects.
How to Make Hybrid Working Work for You
If you want flexibility but don’t want to miss out on career growth opportunities, here’s how to find the right balance:
- Be strategic about in-office days – Use them to network, engage with senior colleagues, and learn through observation.
- Proactively communicate – Stay visible, even when working remotely, by keeping in regular contact with your team and supervisors.
- Take charge of your development – Seek out training, feedback, and mentoring opportunities to ensure you’re progressing.
- Research firms carefully – Not all law firms have the same approach to hybrid working. If flexibility is important to you, explore firms that genuinely embrace it rather than those scaling it back.
What’s Next for You in Your Career?
Hybrid working remains the standard in law, but firms are beginning to limit remote options. For younger lawyers, striking the right balance between flexibility and in-office presence could be key to long-term success.
If you’re thinking about making a move, consider whether your firm’s approach to flexible working aligns with your needs—and whether a change could improve both your career progression and work-life balance.
Want to explore legal roles that offer the right balance for you? Speak to us today—we specialise in helping lawyers find opportunities that align with their career goals, working preferences, and long-term ambitions. Give us a call on 03300 245 606 or get in touch with the relevant consultant for your practice area.
