By Legal Futures Associate Nexa
Growing numbers of solicitors in England and Wales are exploring consultant solicitor roles as alternatives to traditional law firm structures. The appeal is clear: greater autonomy, flexible working arrangements, and control over professional direction. Yet many solicitors hesitate, worried about losing financial security, professional structure, or connection with colleagues. Nexa Law understands these concerns and has built a supportive framework that bridges the gap between conventional practice and modern consultancy, making the transition from solicitor to consultant achievable and rewarding.
Understanding the hesitation
Leaving a familiar law firm environment can feel like a risky step. You’re probably worried about losing a steady income, questioning whether you can succeed independently, and fearing professional isolation.
What are the benefits of consulting
The benefits of changing from a traditional law firm to a New Model Law Firm (NMLF) such as Nexa include:
- Flexibility, as consultant solicitors control their schedules, choose where they work, and manage workloads according to personal priorities rather than partnership demands.
- Earning potential often exceeds traditional solicitor salaries through favourable fee-share arrangements.
- Consultant solicitors have the freedom to select clients and practice areas aligned with their interests and values. Building a personal brand becomes possible when you’re not subsumed within a firm’s corporate identity. One Nexa consultant specialising in employment law explained: “I now work exclusively with clients whose values match mine. That selectivity has made my work genuinely fulfilling.”
Step-by-step guidance for transition
Successfully switching from solicitor to consultant solicitor in England and Wales requires thoughtful preparation and strategic action. You need to consider the following:
- Do you possess an established client base and strong networks? These are essential as you will be expected to bring in your own work.
- Do you have the temperament to work independently and on your own?
- Are you in a good place in your life to make this kind of move?
The next step is to research NMLF that offer robust support and infrastructure. Nexa Law provides exceptional support in areas such as administration and marketing, as well as PII cover.
When applying to a NMLF, send a CV that highlights your practice area specialisms, client relationships, and achievements. Be clear about your areas of expertise, the clients and billings you can bring with you, and the type of consultancy you envision building.
The onboarding process at Nexa includes signing consultant agreements, completing compliance training, and receiving thorough introductions to case management systems including LEAP and Practical Law. Our support team guides you through all of these stages.
Why Nexa is the solution
Nexa Law has designed its consultant model specifically to address the practical and psychological barriers preventing solicitors from making career transitions. No set-up fees eliminate financial obstacles to entry, whilst full support ensures consultants never feel abandoned during the transition process.
Technological integration is seamless; consultants can access industry-leading platforms, including LEAP case management and Practical Law research tools, without incurring any additional costs. Consultant solicitors at Nexa Law also benefit from compliance assistance, PII, and administrative backing.
At Nexa, we also offer social support via regular networking opportunities, collaborative projects, and peer support.
“I’m enjoying being a lawyer again! I think you can dedicate better quality time to client work and give a more personal service. I am achieving good results and I am certainly receiving more plaudits.”
— Jonathan Warner-Reed, Commercial/Property Dispute Partner
In short, we make it as simple as possible to join our dynamic team. To get started, simply give us a call or send an email, and we’ll take it from there.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m ready to become a consultant solicitor?
Being ready to leap into the world of consultancy requires you to have established professional networks and client relationships, savings to help you in the beginning when your consultancy income is likely to vary, and the confidence to work independently. If you have all these and desire autonomy and the ability to set your own income levels, you’re ready to start making inquiries.
What are the main steps involved in transitioning to consultancy?
The transition process includes self-assessment of readiness, researching consultant firms that offer appropriate support, preparing application materials that highlight your specialisms, completing onboarding procedures that include compliance training, learning the in-house practice management system, and building your consultancy through marketing and networking. Nexa provides full support and guidance through each stage.
Can I maintain or increase my earnings as a consultant solicitor?
Many consultant solicitors maintain or significantly increase earnings compared to traditional firm salaries. Earnings depend on client base, practice area, billing rates, and business development efforts.
What practical support will Nexa Law provide during my transition?
Nexa provides comprehensive support, including compliance guidance, PII management, a case management system, research platforms, administrative assistance, networking opportunities, and ongoing access to a consultant community. No set-up fees apply, and personalised fee-share structures accommodate individual circumstances. Support continues throughout your consultancy career, not just during the initial transition.
Are there real-life testimonials from solicitors who have made the move?
Numerous solicitors have successfully transitioned to Nexa consultancy across various practice areas, including corporate, family, employment, personal injury, private client, and commercial law. Testimonials consistently highlight increased autonomy, improved work-life balance, enhanced earnings, and greater professional satisfaction.
If you would like to know more about joining Nexa, you can request a brochure here
