With the summer holidays underway, it might feel like the legal world is winding down—but if you’ve been toying with the idea of a new role, now could be the perfect time to explore your options.
While many lawyers take a step back during the summer months, law firms aren’t slowing down. In fact, the legal recruitment market is exceptionally busy right now, with a high number of live opportunities across a wide range of practice areas and PQE levels.
Here’s why the summer season might be the right time to begin your job search.
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The Market Is Active—and You Could Have More Choice
We’re currently seeing strong hiring activity across the legal market, particularly in areas like private client, family, litigation, personal injury and property. With firms continuing to grow and backfilling roles before the end of the year, there are more opportunities available now than earlier this year.
Starting your search during this period could give you access to roles before the market becomes even more competitive in September, when job-seeking activity typically picks up.
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You’ll Likely Face Less Competition
While others are taking a break or waiting until autumn to revisit their career plans, you could be ahead of the curve by acting now. With fewer lawyers actively interviewing during the summer, your application is more likely to stand out—particularly for competitive roles or firms with quick-moving processes.
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You May Have More Headspace
Summer often brings a slight easing of pace, even in busy firms. With fewer colleagues in the office and clients away on holiday, your workload may be more manageable. That makes it an ideal time to reflect on your goals, speak with a recruiter, or update your CV and LinkedIn profile without the pressure of peak-term busyness.
Even if you’re not ready to apply immediately, summer can give you the breathing room to think about what’s next—and start putting plans in place.
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Interviews May Be Easier to Arrange
Interview processes can feel overwhelming when your diary is already packed. But in summer, firms are often more flexible, and you may find it easier to book time off or arrange interviews around annual leave or quieter work periods.
Plus, as interviewers themselves take holidays, processes may move at a more measured pace—giving you the time to prepare and consider your options carefully.
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You’ll Be Settled Before the Year-End Rush
By starting your job search in summer, you’ll be well-placed to secure a new role and complete your notice period before the year-end. That means you can step into a fresh opportunity with plenty of time to settle in—and hit the ground running come January.
If a career move has been on your mind, don’t wait until September to start your search. With a busy market, strong demand for legal talent, and less competition from other jobseekers, summer could offer you the ideal window to find a role that better aligns with your goals, values and lifestyle.
Ready to take the next step?
Get in touch with Realm’s team of specialist consultants for a confidential chat about your options—or browse our current roles and see what’s out there. Your next opportunity might be closer than you think.
