Alternative Careers For Lawyers
Your legal training gives you skills that are in demand far beyond the traditional law firm. Here are six career directions lawyers often explore - from law-adjacent roles to modern alternatives that keep you connected to the profession.
Compliance & Risk
Guide corporations and financial institutions through complex regulations and risk management.
Policy & Regulation
Work with government bodies, NGOs, or think tanks to shape policy and influence change.
Legal Tech & Innovation
Join startups or legal ops teams driving automation and new solutions in the legal sector.
Mediation & ADR
Support dispute resolution and arbitration outside the courtroom.
Academia, Publishing & Training
Share expertise by teaching, writing, or training the next generation of lawyers.
Becoming a Consultant Lawyer
The most natural step for lawyers who want freedom, flexibility, and autonomy - while continuing to practise at the highest level.
A New Chapter Without Leaving Law
Your legal skills remain valuable throughout your career. Many solicitors find a second career within law itself, but in a form that better suits their lifestyle:
- Consultant Lawyer: Work flexibly while keeping client-facing responsibilities.
- In-House Counsel: Join companies in industries you’re passionate about.
- Advisory Roles: Provide part-time, flexible support to growing businesses.
Becoming a Consultant Lawyer
Working as a consultant lawyer is about running your own legal practice with the flexibility of managing your own clients and workload.
- Who you work with: Individuals, businesses, or organisations who need legal expertise.
- Why lawyers choose this path: Independence, flexibility, and the ability to shape your career around the clients and work you want.
- How to Start: Join a platform like Nexa that provides the structure, compliance framework, and support you need while still letting you remain in control of your own clients and practise.
How much could you earn with Nexa?
Complete the information to the right and we'll send you over your tailored calculation.
Success Stories From Lawyers That Have Chosen Nexa
"Working alongside Nexa is a breath of fresh air. They're genuinely nice people who want you to succeed. When you couple that with an entrepreneurial flair and openness to new ideas it makes Nexa feel like no other law firm."
"I really enjoy being part of Nexa. I feel far more encouraged than at my previous firm. The systems are super-efficient and I'm supported to achieve my goals and deliver for clients."
"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."
Set your own hours, workload, and brand identity. With our best-in-class commission rates and minimised overheads you can break free from the salary cap and realise unlimited earning potential.
FAQs
View our FAQs
How does it work?
Once you have joined the team you will be in a position to deliver services to your client base. There will also be the opportunity to accept referred work at your discretion. This means you have total control over your workload and lifestyle. In return for the marketing and administration services Nexa provides, a commission is deducted from your fees. The more you bill the lower the rate of commission. You also have the chance to refer your clients to other lawyers within Nexa and receive fixed commission in respect of this.
How much billed income will I retain?
Ultimately, how much you retain depends entirely on you, but for an example of how much you can expect to receive after commission please click here for our potential income calculator.
How much experience do I need?
Generally speaking, we are very selective about who we accept and would expect all of our lawyers to have at least five years’ post qualification experience. We consider every application on an individual basis and would therefore invite you to get in touch with us if you do not meet this criteria but still feel you might be a suitable candidate.
How do I set up as a consultant?
Consultant lawyers operating within Nexa generally set up a limited company which is used to administer your business and financial affairs. To make this process more straight forward we have a tailor made discounted package to simplify the process.
What support does Nexa provide?
We pride ourselves in providing all the support you could expect from a traditional law firm without the politics and hierarchy. Our support package includes access to leading case management software, cashier support, access to practical law and market leading professional, indemnity insurance. You will also benefit from Nexa marketing and access to expert advice from the founder members, should you require. Everything is set up to help you get up and running in business immediately.
Are there any start-up fees?
Nexa does not charge a set up or start up fee nor does it ask you to indemnify Nexa against the excess on the professional indemnity insurance. You will need to pay for your practicing certificate and have your own IT compliant hardware.
Nexa Insights
Read expert insights from legal experts who are leaders in their field.
