We value your career. We'll welcome your fresh ideas, include you as part of our client team from day one, and celebrate your success along the way.
#5 of 12 in Law
There is no culture enforcing an expectation to work late/weekends when there is no reason for doing so. However, there is an expectation that if a deadline is set, it will be adhered to and met. If you need to take time out for an appointment or anything else during the day, there are no issues with doing so provided that you inform your team first. Taking leave is also an easy process and the office support staff and partners are extremely helpful and understanding when you have questions about taking time away or remote working,
The expectation of the role is Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 5pm. Flexibility tends to depend on the particular team, but in general, there is flexibility where needed, and the ability to work from home. It is very rare for people (especially graduates/solicitors) to stay late into the evening, with most people going home before 6pm.
Really flexible with remote work, especially if you're feeling a little run down. I am always encouraged not to stay late and to prioritise going home over completing tasks.
A typical day is formally from 8:30am-5:00pm. However, there is an expectation to stay later if there is something that needs filing, or a meeting is running late, for example. I typically leave the office between 5:15 and 5:30, but this gives me a chance to finish things off and plan the next day. I have observed some flexibility around hours and remote working but this does not really apply at my level (and honestly I do not expect it to). At this stage of my career I do prefer being in the office to help build those initial relationships and ask colleagues for assistance.
As a graduate, remote work isn't necessarily an option as we need to learn by surrounding ourselves with others int he office setting and being present - however, this is something I have seen used and done by all others in the team frequently without impacting communication or the team. My employers are flexible int terms of letting me take early or later lunches, having time to go to private appointments when needed, and events for learning or networking opportunities.