The 2025 Platform Firms Report by Codex Edge confirms what we see every day—platform law is a first-choice career option for lawyers who want more control, more flexibility, and a better way of working. At the forefront of that movement is Setfords.
For the second year running, Setfords has been named the UK’s number one hiring law firm—not just among platform firms, but across the entire legal sector. In 2024, we welcomed 189 new consultant lawyers—more than any other firm in the country. And crucially, every single one of them made the decision to join. They didn’t arrive by acquisition or merger. They chose Setfords—because this is where top lawyers come to build the career they actually want.
“Hiring at this scale isn’t about numbers—it’s about getting the culture and support right,” says George Reynolds, Chief Growth Officer. “Our model empowers lawyers to thrive, not just survive. And it’s clear that message is resonating.”
The Rise of the Platform Model
The report shows that four of the ten biggest hiring firms in the UK are now platform-based—a clear sign that lawyers are actively choosing freedom, flexibility, and control. With continued interest from mid-career lawyers (average PQE at move: 16), the consultancy model is attracting talent from across traditional firms—and shows no signs of slowing down.
It’s not just about volume. Platform firms are expanding the kinds of legal work they support. Setfords ranks among the top five firms in high-growth areas like residential and commercial property, litigation, family law, and employment.
“There’s a misconception that platform law is just for conveyancing,” says Rob Young, Associate Director of Lawyer Recruitment. “The reality is we support specialists across every major discipline—because our infrastructure, which includes business development, marketing, and compliance support, lets them get on with the work that matters.”
Growth with Substance
This year, Setfords surpassed 600 consultants on the platform—a milestone built entirely on organic growth. We didn’t merge. We didn’t acquire. Every lawyer who joined made an individual decision to do so. That kind of growth doesn’t just reflect scale—it reflects trust. It reflects a growing number of lawyers actively choosing autonomy, support, and a better way of working.
“Every consultant who joins Setfords is supported from day one by a 160+ person head office team,” explains Marissa Ayres, Head of Lawyer Wellbeing. “It’s that combination of independence and behind-the-scenes expertise that sets us apart.”
And with that growth comes something equally powerful: community. As the UK’s largest platform law firm, Setfords has cultivated a uniquely collaborative network of consultants across a broad range of legal specialisms. It’s a place where lawyers can cross-refer with confidence, draw on the insight of leading peers, and offer clients truly joined-up service—without sacrificing their independence.
Why It Matters
Setfords was built on the belief that lawyers deserve more: the freedom to choose their clients, the ability to work their way, and the confidence that they are supported by a team that wants them to succeed.
“We’re not a stepping stone. We’re a destination,” says Hamish Savin, Associate Director of Lawyer Recruitment. “And we’re proud that more lawyers chose Setfords than any other firm in 2024.”
Setfords was named the UK’s number one hiring law firm in the 2025 Platform Firms Report, with 189 hires in 2024—more than any other firm in the country. We also topped the rankings for absolute headcount growth and featured among the leading firms across high-demand practice areas, including residential property, commercial litigation, employment, and family law. To explore the full findings, you can download the report here.
Is Consultancy for Me?
If you want to find out more about becoming a consultant with us, get in touch. We are happy to conduct interviews remotely for suitable, UK-qualified candidates with five or more years’ experience. If you’re a good fit, you’ll be joining a team that was created for lawyers to do their best work.
The next step towards a better way of working…
