The myriad of ways to work as a consultant
As we unpacked the data, we found there are various ways in which consultant lawyers operate — from project-based contract work with one client at a time to fractional general counsel roles that cater to multiple clients on a fixed number of hours per week.
Some even embody the spirit of a solo law firm, invoicing for work they do on request. We can also see the rise of sub-contractors in law, who lend their expertise to ALSPs (whether law-firm backed or stand-alone) when they need an extra pair of hands.
Top sources of work for in-house legal consultants
"If your engagement [or account] manager knows what you want and when you want it, the right projects are more likely to come your way.”
The perks of working with ALSPs
The majority of respondents work through ALSPs — in most cases registering with more than one — while also taking on work directly from clients.
A key advantage they mentioned was the “crucial” support they get from their engagement/account manager, which can help them spend the right amount of time on projects and improve the quality of work. One respondent advises consultants to “be honest with your engagement/account manager about your capacity and expertise, and proactively keep in touch if you’re going to be available for a new project in the near future”. They reassure that saying no because of time restraints or level of expertise is not a sign of weakness.
Of respondents work through ALSPs
“It was amazing to hear my engagement [or account] manager say, ‘I’ll never ask you to be in the office if you don’t want to, and never ask you to work when you don’t want to.’ With ASLPs there’s no pressure to do something if you don’t want to.”
How consultant lawyers bill for their time
Consultants we surveyed tend to work on a day rate basis due to the challenges of securing temporary employment contracts with good benefits. While day rates can look appealing, experienced consultants warn about the lack of perks like pensions, maternity leave, and a consistent stream of income as they’re only paid for the days they work.
Some consultants establish their own companies for invoicing purposes, while others choose to invoice under their personal name or through an ‘umbrella’ company. The government reversing its proposal to amend the IR35 rules is unfortunate for many of our respondents because the rules prevent tax-efficient consulting in most cases.
This insight sheds light on the complex landscape consultant lawyers navigate when it comes to billing and financial considerations.
“It’s best to make sure you have a financial cushion, so you can enjoy those unplanned breaks while waiting for your next role.”
Hypothetical example: A win-win approach to subcontracting in law
Morgan Taylor, specialist subcontractor
Imagine a legal career that's not only fulfilling for the lawyer, but also brings benefits to a law firm and its clients. In this case study, we explore an innovative path where one of our respondents acts via the captive ALSP as a specialised subcontractor for the associated law firm, giving a helping hand when things get busy to prevent overload. What's remarkable is the flexibility it offers — our respondent decides their weekly workload giving them a great work-life balance, and doesn’t mind the lack of direct client contact — in fact that’s one of the benefits.
For the law firm, the collaboration is a game-changer. It lets their team manage heavy work periods seamlessly, making team members happier, and the clients receive high-quality legal assistance at a reduced cost.
This case demonstrates a triple win — the consultant enjoys a flexible career, the law firm maintains efficiency, and clients get a cost-effective service. It's potentially a glimpse into the future of legal careers, where good cooperation leads to success for everyone involved.
