At a Glance
- Tasks: Build your own legal practice with the freedom to choose clients and work remotely.
- Company: Join a supportive network of entrepreneurial lawyers in Manchester.
- Benefits: Earn 70-80% of billables, enjoy flexible contracts, and receive business development support.
- Other info: Opportunity to scale your practice and exceed traditional salary limits.
- Why this job: Gain autonomy while having the safety net of established firms and resources.
- Qualifications: Senior lawyers with in-house experience and a strategic mindset.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
What if you could earn more than a full-time General Counsel — without the internal politics, fixed salary ceiling, or executive treadmill? We’re helping experienced in-house lawyers in Manchester explore fractional General Counsel opportunities. By starting this career path with us, you gain the best of both worlds: The credibility and infrastructure of established firms and referral partners — combined with the freedom to build a high-value portfolio practice on your own terms. This is what we call self-employment with a safety net — autonomy with structure, income with scalability.
What You’ll Receive
- 70–80% of billables paid directly to you
- Flexible contract structure — choose your portfolio of clients
- Remote-first with optional office access
- Full compliance, trust accounting, and PI insurance support
- Administrative and billing infrastructure handled for you
- The ability to scale from 1 retained client to 5+ over time
Business Development Support from The SELL Life
We don’t just place you and disappear. You receive:
- Personalised strategy to position yourself as a retained strategic advisor
- Frameworks for packaging fractional GC services into predictable monthly retainers
- Access to a curated referral network of commercial lawyers and founders
- Vendor discounts and member benefits that rival national firms
- Courses, templates, and playbooks for scaling a portfolio practice
- Regular CPD and strategy sessions focused on growth, not just compliance
- Live sessions designed to solve business development bottlenecks
Who is This For?
- Senior lawyers with in-house experience who:
- Are already acting as a strategic business partner
- Want higher income potential than fixed executive salary
- Prefer influence over internal hierarchy
- Are commercially minded and confident advising founders or boards
- Value autonomy but don’t want to build everything from scratch
The Result
- Most experienced counsel transitioning to fractional models:
- Replace or exceed their corporate salary
- Work across diverse, growth-focused businesses
- Build equity-like upside through long-term client relationships
- Create a practice that belongs entirely to them
This is not a traditional role. It’s a platform to build something of your own — with the backing of an international network of entrepreneurial lawyers.
Next Step
Apply confidentially.
General Counsel employer: The SELL Life
The SELL Life in Derby is an exceptional employer for independent solicitors seeking to build their own practice with unparalleled support. With a focus on autonomy and flexibility, you can enjoy the rewards of your hard work while benefiting from expert guidance in client acquisition and business development. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth, ensuring that you have the resources and support needed to thrive in your legal career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Counsel
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including The SELL Life, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace General Counsel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at The SELL Life, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in The SELL Life and the specific role of General Counsel. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for The SELL Life’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at The SELL Life
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at The SELL Life.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at The SELL Life.
