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Independent lawyering: is it for me?

27 July 2017
Issue: 7756 / Categories: Features , Profession
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​Can you afford to become an independent solicitor? Can you afford not to? Two consultants at virtual firm Scott-Moncrieff & two career experts share their experiences

Increasing numbers of solicitors are going freelance, inspired by flexible working and keeping the lion’s share of billable hours. Others find it the best post-merger escape route. The fact is, freelance solicitors tend to evangelise about their new-found spare time to spend with the family and on other interests. But that sticky first year flying solo remains a challenge for many. Consultants at the UK’s longest-established virtual firm, Scott-Moncrieff, explain below how they overcame their trepidations.

Funding first steps

Terence Channer, who specialises in actions against the police at Scott-Moncrieff, is open about the tough decision he had to make to fund his move into freelance work: ‘I sold my house to fund my career. I didn’t have a partner with an income to soften the blow but I knew I needed greater freedom, especially away from office politics.’

While a house sale might not be a viable option for many, there is great appeal in leaving behind huge

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

NLJ career profile: Liz McGrath KC

NLJ career profile: Liz McGrath KC

A good book, a glass of chilled Albarino, and being creative for pleasure help Liz McGrath balance the rigours of complex bundles and being Head of Chambers

Burges Salmon—Matthew Hancock-Jones

Burges Salmon—Matthew Hancock-Jones

Firm welcomes director in its financial services financial regulatory team

Gateley Legal—Sam Meiklejohn

Gateley Legal—Sam Meiklejohn Premium Content

Partner appointment in firm’s equity capital markets team

NEWS

Law school partners with charity to give free assistance to litigants in need

Magic circle firms, in-house legal departments and litigation firms alike are embracing more flexible ways to manage surges of workloads, the success of Flex Legal has shown

Magic circle firms, in-house legal departments and litigation firms alike are embracing more flexible ways to manage surges of workloads, the success of Flex Legal has shown

Magic circle firms, in-house legal departments and litigation firms alike are embracing more flexible ways to manage surges of workloads, the success of Flex Legal has shown

Walkers and runners will take in some of London’s finest views at the 16th annual charity event

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