At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage your own client relationships and practice with full autonomy.
- Company: Tan Ward, a boutique law firm offering a unique consultancy model.
- Benefits: Transparent fee-sharing, no billing targets, and full operational support.
- Other info: Join a collaborative community of high-quality lawyers across various sectors.
- Why this job: Enjoy independence and flexibility while leveraging a reputable firm's brand.
- Qualifications: Partner-level lawyers or senior associates with an established client following.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
Tan Ward is a boutique platform law firm that operates on a self-employed consultancy model, giving lawyers full autonomy over their practice without the constraints that come with traditional firm structures. There are no billing targets and no opacity around earnings. The financial terms are agreed and fixed from the outset, and partners manage their own client relationships and workload independently.
The firm is looking to speak with Partner-level lawyers and senior associates who have an established client following and are considering a more independent model — either now or in due course.
The Model
As a self-employed consultant, you will manage your own client relationships and matters while benefiting from the firm's infrastructure, brand, and operational support. This role is ideally suited to lawyers who value autonomy, flexibility, and direct control over their practice and earnings.
What We’re Looking For
- Partner-level lawyers, or senior associates ready to make the transition to a genuinely independent practice
- Approximately 8 years’ PQE or above, though this is flexible for candidates with a strong and demonstrable practice
- Commercial acumen and an entrepreneurial mindset — you are comfortable running your practice as a business
- The ability to work independently and manage matters without supervision
The firm has built its reputation in music, media, and technology, but genuinely welcomes candidates from any sector or practice area. What matters is that you have a portable practice and are motivated by the model — not where your clients come from.
What the Role Offers
- A highly competitive and transparent fee-sharing structure — details shared on request
- Full autonomy over your practice, your clients, and your working style
- No billing targets and no requirement to be office-based
- Full back office support provided
- A collaborative community of high-quality lawyers who care about the work they do
- The brand, profile, and platform of a firm that has already built a genuine reputation in its sectors
Please send your CV to our retained agent Nick Wasserman of Handle Recruitment using the link provided, or contact Nick for a confidential discussion. Please note that any direct applications will be forwarded to Handle for their consideration on our behalf.
Partner in Chelmsford employer: Tan Ward
Tan Ward is an exceptional employer for Partner-level lawyers seeking autonomy and flexibility in their practice. With a transparent fee-sharing structure and no billing targets, you can focus on what truly matters — your clients and your work. The firm fosters a collaborative community of high-quality lawyers, providing robust operational support while allowing you to manage your own client relationships independently, making it an ideal environment for those looking to thrive in a self-employed consultancy model.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Partner in Chelmsford
✨Networking in Legal Circles
Get involved in local bar associations or legal networking events. This is where you’ll meet potential clients and fellow freelancers who can refer you. Don't underestimate the power of a good chat over coffee – it can lead to future gigs!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Start a blog or contribute articles to legal websites or forums. Sharing your insights on current legal issues can set you apart and draw attention from those needing your services. Plus, it builds your credibility in the freelance market.
✨Client Pipeline Essentials
Create a clear portfolio that highlights your previous legal work and client testimonials. Make sure it’s easy to find on your website. This will help potential clients see what you can do for them and build trust before they even reach out.
✨Keep an Eye on Job Boards
Freelance legal opportunities pop up in specific online job boards. Websites like LawCareers.Net or even general platforms like Upwork often have roles looking for freelance legal counsel. Regularly checking these can land you a project before others even hear about it!
We think you need these skills to ace Partner in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Specialisation:In the legal sector, it's all about the details. Be sure to highlight your specific areas of law, such as corporate, criminal, or family law, in your CV. Mention any relevant qualifications, certifications, and experience that clearly demonstrate your expertise in these fields.
Tailor Your Portfolio:For a freelance legal role, having a solid portfolio is essential. Include samples of your work like case studies, legal briefs, or articles you've written. Make sure they showcase your abilities and knowledge, as they'll give potential clients a clear idea of what you bring to the table.
Flexibility and Availability:When applying as a freelancer, be open about your availability and willingness to adapt. Include your preferred working hours and how you manage multiple clients. Flexibility can be a huge draw for potential clients, so let them know you’re the go-to person they can rely on.
Engage With Your Potential Clients:Take the time to craft personalised cover letters for each application. Mention how your unique skills can benefit Tan Ward specifically. This engagement shows that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their team from day one.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tan Ward
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
As a freelancer in the legal field, it’s essential to demonstrate your depth of knowledge in specific areas of law relevant to Tan Ward. Have a few examples ready of cases you've worked on or legal research you've conducted that showcases your expertise—whether it's contract law, intellectual property, or another niche.
✨Pitch Your Portfolio of Success
Bring along a portfolio that highlights your previous freelance work and successes. Include testimonials from clients, sample contracts you’ve navigated, or any articles you've published in legal journals. This not only shows your ability to deliver results but also your capacity for maintaining professional relationships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions during your interview. This might involve ways to navigate tricky legal situations or ethical dilemmas. Be ready to think on your feet and showcase your problem-solving skills—even if it’s hypothetical, your approach matters!
✨Know Your Worth—And State It
When in discussions about your rates, be confident in what you bring to the table. Know the market rates for freelancers in your legal specialty and be prepared to justify your pricing based on your experience and case successes. Practice how you'll communicate this effectively during your chat with Tan Ward.
