You might have heard the terms ‘locum’ and ‘consultant solicitor’ being used interchangeably. However, in reality they are very different roles and paths for lawyers to take. Both can be good options for solicitors searching for a career outside of traditional law firms.
This article clarifies the differences between working as a locum vs consultant solicitor, including the key aspects of each role. Whether you are deciding which kind of role is right for you, or simply want to know the difference, this article is here to help.
What is a locum solicitor?
A locum solicitor works on a temporary basis, covering absence or short-term demand at a firm, and is paid for that period only. A consultant solicitor builds their own ongoing practice and client base on a platform firm, keeping a share of the fees they bill.
What is a locum consultant?
“Locum consultant” is a term that gets used loosely, and it can cause confusion. Strictly speaking, a locum works temporarily within a firm’s existing structure, while a consultant works independently under a platform firm. Some platform firms, including Setfords, let existing consultants take on locum-style cover for other consultants – but this is different from being a “locum consultant” as a standalone role, which isn’t a formally defined position in most firms.
Key characteristics of a locum solicitor role:
- Temporary Engagement: Locums are contracted on a short-term or fixed-time basis to address specific needs for the firm.
- Integration into Existing Team: They are expected to fit seamlessly into the firm’s culture and workflow.
- Adherence to Firm Policies: Locums must follow the firm’s rules, guidelines, and standards, including how, when, and where they are expected to work.
- Limited Scope of Work: Their responsibilities are often confined to the specific area they are hired to cover, typically with limited scope for growth in the role.
What is a consultant solicitor?
A consultant solicitor or consultant lawyer is a self-employed legal professional who provides expert advice and services to their clients under the umbrella of a platform law firm such as Setfords. Consultants can choose their own clients and working hours, and typically work remotely from home or elsewhere.
Key characteristics of a consultant solicitor role:
- Self-employed: Consultants are technically self-employed, working with a platform firm such as Setfords that provides back-office support.
- Flexibility: As they’re self-employed, consultant solicitors have the flexibility to choose their own hours.
- Earning capabilities: As a consultant, the more work they do, the more they can bill, so their income isn’t fixed.
- Working remotely: Most consultant solicitors work remotely, from home or their own office space, although working in the firm’s office is often an option.
How does a consultant solicitor differ from a locum?
The core difference is autonomy. A locum works within a firm’s existing structure, following its policies, hours and processes on a temporary basis. A consultant solicitor is self-employed, choosing their own clients, rates and working hours under a platform firm. Locums are typically paid per hour or day, while consultants set their own fees and keep a larger share of what they bill.
Which model suits you?
If you value structure, a fixed schedule and minimal admin, locum work may suit you better. If you’d rather build your own client base, set your own hours and take home more of what you bill, consultancy is likely the better fit. Many solicitors try locum work first to get a feel for different firms before deciding whether consultancy is right for them.
The benefits of being a consultant solicitor
Consultant solicitor roles offer several advantages for legal professionals seeking a more flexible and fulfilling career:
- Greater Flexibility: Consultants can choose their own clients, set their own rates, and work from wherever they choose.
- Work-Life Balance: Consultants can often achieve a better work-life balance by setting their own hours and workload.
- Additional Earnings: Consultant solicitors take home a greater percentage of their billings than they do in other roles. For example, at Setfords this is up to 80%.
- Networking Opportunities: Consultant roles can provide opportunities to network with other legal professionals and build relationships within the industry.
While they may be used interchangeably by some, in reality, consultant solicitors and locums have very different roles. Both can offer a viable alternative to traditional law, but consultancy reigns supreme when it comes to greater flexibility, work-life balance, and earning potential. By understanding the differences between these two types of solicitors and carefully considering your own career goals and preferences, you can make an informed decision about which path is right for you.
Can you move from locum work to consultancy?
Yes, many solicitors use locum work as a stepping stone before moving into consultancy. Locum roles can help you build experience across different firms and practice areas, which is useful when you’re deciding whether the autonomy of consultancy suits you. Once you’re ready, you can register as a consultant with a platform firm and, if you choose, continue taking on locum-style cover alongside your own client work.
Once you become a consultant solicitor at Setfords, you also have the unique opportunity to offer locum cover for other consultant solicitors within the firm. This allows you to experience the best of both worlds – enjoying the autonomy and flexibility of consultancy while occasionally stepping into locum roles to diversify your work and income. By covering for other consultants during their absences or periods of high demand, you could not only expand your professional network but also enhance your skill set, all while maintaining the freedom and balance that comes with being a consultant solicitor.
If you’re an entrepreneurial lawyer with five or more years of post-qualified experience and you’re considering consultancy, we want to hear from you. Please get in touch to find out more about working with us with a confidential conversation.
