Career breaks are increasingly common in the legal sector, whether undertaken for family commitments, health reasons, or to pursue other professional interests. However, returning to practice can present unique challenges.

Below are five recommendations to support a successful re-entry into the legal profession:

1. Update Your Legal Knowledge
The legal landscape evolves rapidly. Consider undertaking continuing professional development (CPD) courses, attending webinars, or subscribing to relevant legal publications to remain current in your chosen practice area.

2. Re-establish Professional Networks
Reconnect with former colleagues, mentors, and contacts within the sector. Informing your network of your intention to return can uncover opportunities that are not widely advertised.

3. Explore Structured Returner Programmes and Flexible Opportunities
An increasing number of firms now offer returner initiatives specifically designed for experienced professionals resuming their careers. Interim, contract, and part-time positions can also serve as effective pathways back into practice.

4. Refine Your CV and Professional Profile
Be transparent regarding your career break, while highlighting relevant skills, experience, and any professional development undertaken during this period. Activities such as volunteering, consulting, maternity/paternity leave, caring responsibilities, or study can demonstrate continued engagement and commitment.

5. Seek Specialist Recruitment Support
Partnering with a recruitment consultancy that focuses exclusively on the legal sector can provide valuable insights into the market, assist with interview preparation, and help secure suitable roles aligned with your experience and aspirations.

What Should Firms Consider When Supporting Returners?

Firms play an essential role in enabling a smooth transition back into practice. Key considerations include:

Skills Refresh and Training
Provide access to legal updates, technology resources, and training to rebuild technical and soft skills such as confidence and negotiation.

Flexible, Phased Return
Offer reduced hours or hybrid working options to ease the transition, and set clear expectations around responsibilities and goals.

Structured Support
Create formal returner programmes with tailored training, mentoring, and regular check-ins to build confidence and ensure consistent support.

It is important to remember, a career break is only one chapter in your professional journey. Employers increasingly recognise the diverse perspectives and resilience that returners contribute to their organisations.

If you are considering resuming your legal career, our team would be pleased to offer confidential advice and guidance. Please do not hesitate to contact either Frasia, Cameron, Teddie, Steph, or Jade for a confidential discussion.

frasia@frasiawright.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/frasia-wright-6bbabba/

cameron@frasiawright.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-adrain-22a81627/

teddie@frasiawright.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/teddie-wright-7b017ab7/

stephanie@frasiawright.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-togneri-alexander-4aa35738/

jade@frasiawright.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jadeorr1/

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