Remote working as an associate solicitor

As an associate solicitor remote working at Minster Law, my role involves managing a portfolio of around 14 cases, each with damages valuing from £250,000 to over £1M. I’ve been part of the Minster Law team for a decade now, transitioning to remote work in August 2018 following the closure of our London office. Living in East Langton, Leicestershire, this shift necessitated a deep dive into remote work platforms, particularly Microsoft Teams, which has become pivotal for meetings with clients, experts, counsel, and even defendants’ solicitors. It also serves as a crucial tool for daily coordination with my assistant and paralegal, as well as for our monthly meetings, ranging from one-on-ones and peer reviews to team gatherings. Another key platform is my team’s chat forum, which facilitates seamless communication with the broader team for any queries or expert recommendations.

Transitioning to remote work presented its challenges, especially back in 2018 when the concept wasn’t as universally accepted as it is today. Initially, I found myself commuting to the office several times a month for meetings, grappling with the logistics of managing paper-based documents remotely. This required the firm to equip me with a printer and a fireproof cabinet at home. However, as the firm evolved towards a paperless system and with the adoption of digital platforms like SharePoint for document management, the need for physical document handling has significantly diminished.

Remote work has proven its worth by allowing me to meet and even surpass the targets set by the firm, showcasing the viability and productivity of remote employees. For example, my biggest settlements have all come since moving to remote working. My routine mirrors a typical office day, with structured start, lunch, and end times, and a designated home office space to maintain a professional work environment. This disciplined approach, coupled with a strong internet connection, has been key to my productivity.

Feedback from supervisors and peers alike has affirmed my ability to meet my targets consistently while working remotely. The wider acceptance of remote work post-COVID has shifted perceptions, with many colleagues now seeing the benefits of such flexibility.

What I enjoy most about working remotely is the blend of productivity and personal freedom it offers. Platforms like Microsoft Teams ensure I remain connected with my team without feeling isolated. This setup has also freed me from the time and expense associated with commuting, allowing for a better balance between work and personal life.

A particularly memorable aspect of my remote work journey was the opportunity to work from Australia for several months due to a family health crisis. This arrangement demonstrated the firm’s flexibility and the effectiveness of remote work, allowing me to fulfil my professional duties without geographic constraints. I conducted conferences with counsel, and even a court hearing without anyone being aware I was 10,000 miles away! Although this did require me to set my Australian alarm clock for some 1am and 3am meetings!

Communication with my team is primarily through Microsoft Teams, ensuring regular engagement and collaboration on case developments. Regular meetings and check-ins help maintain connectivity and foster team relationships, despite the physical distance.

To support remote work, Minster Law provided essential equipment initially and has made significant resources available online, including a guide to working from home and various training resources. Managing distractions involves creating a dedicated work environment at home, distinct from living spaces.

For those new to remote work, I recommend establishing a consistent routine, designating a specific area of your home for work, taking regular breaks, maintaining communication with colleagues, and using the saved commuting time for personal interests.

Overall, remote work has been a positive force in my life, enhancing my work-life balance while allowing me to remain an effective and productive member of the Minster Law team.

Minster Law’s serious injury team is one of the largest in the UK, with specialists in head and brain injuries, spinal injuries, and injuries resulting in amputation and limb damage. Find out more about working in serious injury and what opportunities are available in the team.