By Legal Futures Associate Nexa Law
The legal profession has always evolved with the times. Today, both traditional law firms and new model law firms (NMLFs) face a shared challenge: how to attract and retain the best talent in a profession where expectations about career paths, flexibility, and wellbeing are shifting.
A changing landscape
Law remains one of the most respected professions in the UK, but the way lawyers want to practise is changing. Increasingly, mid to senior-level lawyers are looking for more autonomy, better work-life balance, and a greater share of the fees they generate. Traditional firms continue to offer structured career progression, high-profile work, and brand prestige, but the consultancy model provides an alternative path for those seeking more autonomy and independence.
Strengths of the traditional firm
Traditional law firms bring stability, resources, and strong reputations built over decades. They provide excellent training grounds for junior solicitors, structured teams to deliver complex matters, and brand equity that reassures clients. For many lawyers, these benefits are invaluable and remain the right fit.
Why new model law firms are growing
New model law firms such as Nexa are growing because they meet the needs of experienced lawyers who want to practise differently. They offer fee-share structures, the freedom to choose clients, and the ability to work flexibly while still benefiting from robust compliance, tech, and back-office support. For the right lawyer, this means maximising earnings without the burden of managing a traditional firm’s overheads.
A complementary future
It is not a question of one model replacing the other. Rather, the profession is diversifying to give lawyers more choice. Traditional firms will continue to thrive by offering structured, team-driven environments, while new models will appeal to those who want autonomy without stepping away from practice. Together, both models ensure the profession remains dynamic and attractive to future generations.
The Nexa option
At Nexa, we work with over 180 lawyers across the UK who value independence but also want the reassurance of a supportive platform. For individual lawyers, consultancy offers greater autonomy, flexibility, and the chance to retain more of what they earn, while still having the backing of a modern, well-resourced firm.
But it’s not just about individual solicitors. For law firms too, Nexa provides real options:
Your firm, your future
Whether you want to build your own practice under your brand or transition an existing firm into the next stage of its journey, Nexa gives you the freedom to choose. You retain your reputation and client base while benefiting from our infrastructure, compliance, and operational expertise.
Smart exits, seamless transitions
If you’re considering stepping back from managing a practice, Nexa offers a supportive solution. We work with you to transition your firm, protect your clients, and preserve the value you’ve built, while removing the stress and overhead of running a traditional partnership model.
For lawyers and law firms alike, the choice is no longer limited to the traditional route. With models like Nexa, the profession is broadening its horizons, ensuring that whatever stage of the journey you’re at, there’s a way to practise law that works for you.
If you would like to know more, please contact John McAuley, who will be happy to discuss the options with you in more detail.
