Estimated read time:
5 minutes
Summary
- A consultant solicitor is a qualified Solicitor who works on a self-employed basis under the umbrella of a traditional law firm or New Model Law Firm
- Consultant Solicitors usually set up and operate through a personal service company (PSC) or limited company and earn income via fee-sharing arrangements.
- Becoming a consultant solicitor offers flexibility, high earning potential, and control over clients and work style.
- Host firms provide key support, including compliance, insurance, administration, and technology
- The model suits experienced solicitors with an entrepreneurial drive and a desire to work independently.
In contrast to an employed Solicitor, a ‘consultant solicitor’ is a qualified legal professional who works on a self-employed basis under the umbrella of a regulated law firm (either a traditional or new model law firm). Becoming a consultant solicitor offers enormous advantages in terms of your career progression, financial rewards, and work/life balance. This is why more and more experienced Solicitors, having worked for a number of years for a traditional law firm, are looking for much greater flexibility and autonomy in their work. In this article, we will explain what is meant by a consultant solicitor, how the model works, how a consultant solicitor is different to a traditional employee solicitor. It will also provide information on joining Nexa Law.
What is a consultant solicitor in England and Wales?
A consultant solicitor in England and Wales is a self-employed legal professional who provides legal services under the umbrella of a traditional law firm or new model law firm such as Nexa Law. Consultants are not employed, but instead contract to the firm through their own limited company or personal service company (PSC).
Consultant Solicitors at Nexa Law work as self-employed practitioners but deliver legal services under Nexa’s SRA-regulated entity. We are responsible for compliance and regulation, while Consultant Solicitors must ensure their practice adheres to the SRA’s requirements.
As a consultant solicitor, you benefit from the reach, brand, and systems of the law firm you contract with. In turn, you can manage your own practice while relying on us for regulatory and administrative support.
How the consultant solicitor model works
Consultants work with a law firm that provides the legal and operational framework needed to practise safely and efficiently. For Consultant Solicitors with Nexa Law, this includes:
- Regulatory compliance – Nexa Law is SRA regulated
- Indemnity insurance
- Access to a full suite of law firm IT systems and software, including Practical Law, LEAP case management, and document management
- File auditing and supervision
- Billing and administrative support
- Business support services include cashiering and credit control, postal scanning, telephone support, and fast payment processing.
- Marketing services
At Nexa Law, there are no start-up fees, so you can get set up and running quickly at our cost. Most firms operate a fee-share model. At Nexa Law, we work on a 75/25 split, where you retain 75% of your billed fees. And if you meet certain thresholds, this increases to 85%.
Can I become a consultant solicitor?
To become a consultant solicitor with Nexa Law, you must have at least eight years’ post-qualified experience (PQE). Becoming a consultant Solicitor is most suited to legal professionals with an existing client following or the confidence to build one, strong time management, self-discipline, and the desire for professional independence. From our experience, Consultant Solicitors tend to be entrepreneurial by nature, proactive, and really want to take control of their own income and career direction.
After all, when you are self-employed, you are in the driving seat.
Consultant Solicitors vs Employed Solicitors
The following summarises the key differences between a traditional Employed Solicitor and a Consultant Solicitor:
| Feature | Consultant Solicitor | Employed Solicitor |
| Employment status | Self-employed / PSC | Employee |
| Income | Fee-share from own work | Salary (plus bonuses) |
| Autonomy | Complete control over clients and hours | Limited – firm sets expectations |
| Compliance/administration | Provided by the firm | Handled by the employer |
| Holiday / sick pay | Self-funded | Employer-funded |
| Business development | Solicitor-led | Shared or firm-led |
| Branding | Can create their own brand | Relies on the brand of the employer |
Becoming a self-employed consultant does not mean that you will lose connection with others in your profession. At Nexa Law, we understand that community spirit and getting to meet others are essential. We run face-to-face networking events each month around the UK and even have a Christmas party!
Final words
Becoming a Consultant Solicitor offers freedom, financial opportunity, and support, without the constraints of traditional employment. It is most suited to experienced solicitors who have decided to take ownership of their careers, finances, and work/life balance.
FAQs
What is the difference between a consultant solicitor and an employed solicitor?
A Consultant Solicitor is self-employed, keeps a share of their fees, and chooses clients and hours. An Employed Solicitor is salaried with fixed working arrangements set by the firm.
Do consultant solicitors get holiday or sick pay?
No. Consultant Solicitors are self-employed and fund their own time off, but have more flexibility and earning potential.
What support does Nexa Law give consultant solicitors?
Nexa Law provides compliance, insurance, legal software, administration, marketing, and business support, plus regular networking events.
What experience do I need to join Nexa Law as a Consultant Solicitor?
You need at least eight years’ post-qualified experience and the ability to build or bring your own client base.
How much can a Consultant Solicitor earn at Nexa Law?
At Nexa Law, you keep 75% of your fees, rising to 85% if you meet set billing thresholds.
Are you ready to take the next step to becoming a consultant? If so, please feel free to schedule a call with our team today to learn more about joining Nexa Law. We will explain how the model works and answer any questions you have.
