The desire for progression and promotion in your career is natural, and for many solicitors and lawyers, the idea of running your own business or having more control over your future is deeply appealing. Traditionally, the career path has been clear: work hard, apply for promotion, and climb the ladder. For some, this works perfectly well. But what if you could progress on your own terms, without the restrictions that often come with a salaried role?
Leaving the security of employment to become a consultant solicitor or lawyer can feel like a daring leap. It’s perfectly normal to ask yourself if this is the right move. Many legal professionals are drawn to consultancy because of the greater flexibility, higher earning potential, and autonomy it offers. Still, it’s always wise to explore your options fully before making a decision.
At Taylor Rose, we’ve supported a huge community of consultant solicitors and lawyers through this transition, and we know first-hand both the opportunities and the challenges involved. The traditional law firm structure suits some, but it also comes with fixed hours, targets, and limited opportunities for financial growth. By contrast, consultancy puts you firmly in control of your career.
You choose when and where you work, which clients you take on, and how much you charge. One of the biggest advantages is the freedom from fixed office hours and unrealistic billing targets. Instead, you can design a working life that suits you, achieving a balance between your career and personal priorities.
At Taylor Rose, consultant solicitors and lawyers retain up to 75% of their billings, so your income directly reflects your hard work and commitment. This not only empowers you financially but also allows you to focus on work that genuinely interests you and plays to your strengths.
Understandably, the idea of leaving behind the security of a regular pay cheque can be intimidating. Many solicitors and lawyers worry about whether they will have enough clients to sustain themselves. If you already have a strong client base, your transition will likely be smooth. If not, you won’t be left to figure it out alone. At Taylor Rose, we provide marketing, new business support, and guidance on client acquisition, backed by the reputation of a nationally recognised, top 60 law firm.
Another common concern is the administrative burden of running your own practice. With us, you don’t need to worry. We handle compliance, IT, invoicing, insurance, and other back-office support so that you can focus on what you do best: legal work. Some fear that consultancy may feel isolating after the companionship of a traditional office. But Taylor Rose has built a strong community of consultants, the largest in the UK, with regular networking events, peer and legal head support, and a dedicated Consultant Concierge team. You’ll also have access to our offices to work or meet clients whenever you wish.
Moving into consultancy isn’t an overnight change; it requires thought and planning. You’ll need to consider your notice period, client base, and business strategy. But with the right support, it’s a straightforward process. At Taylor Rose, we’ll take care of essentials like compliance, insurance, and IT setup, so you can start working right away. Many consultant solicitors and lawyers find it helpful to establish a daily routine, ensuring they stay productive while enjoying the flexibility they’ve gained. Building your practice takes time, but it’s an investment in your long-term success and independence.
For many, legal consultancy is not just a change of career path but a transformation in lifestyle. It offers freedom, independence, and the chance to design your own future. Many solicitors and lawyers who make the switch often say their only regret is not doing it sooner.
If you’re feeling restricted in your current role, keen to earn more, or simply ready for greater independence, consultancy could be your next step. At Taylor Rose, our Consultant Solicitor Programme is designed to make this transition seamless, providing guidance, support, and a structure where you can thrive.
If you’d like to explore whether consultancy is right for you, get in touch with our Consultant Recruitment Team on 020 3551 8100. We’d love to talk through your options.