Mary Nowell, Managing Director, reflects on the national private practice market in 2025 and considers the prospects for 2026.
From Mary Nowell
Private practice legal recruitment in 2025 has been marked by a sense of caution, driven primarily by macroeconomic uncertainties.
With global growth slowing, especially in Europe, and the continued impact of trade tensions and tariffs, firms are adopting a more conservative approach to hiring. This has led to longer recruitment cycles and fewer opportunities for new talent, particularly at the junior level where firms are more hesitant to expand their teams.
Looking beyond London
Simultaneously, firms are increasingly focusing on major cities outside of London to stay competitive. With salaries in these cities significantly lower than in London, international firms are looking to already-established regional offices in legal centres like Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds to tap into more cost-effective talent pools.
Firms are increasingly focusing on major cities outside of London to stay competitive.
This shift helps firms manage rising operational costs while still meeting client demand for greater efficiency. However, the challenge lies in attracting talent in key practice areas – such as employment, commercial, corporate, and construction law – especially at the mid-career level, where demand remains high but the talent pool is tight.
Adapting to tech
Technological advancements continue to reshape the legal sector, requiring firms to evolve quickly in order to meet client needs. As firms adopt innovations that increase efficiency, there is growing pressure to ensure that their talent is equipped to use these tools effectively.
The rise of AI tools, such as Harvey (now adopted by firms like A&O, Shearman, Ashurst, and Mayer Brown, along with in-house teams at ArcelorMittal and Walmart) illustrates the growing trend for tech integration.
Linklaters recently announced the formation of a 20-strong team of AI lawyers who will deploy across its global network.
Harvey’s recent $8bn valuation underscores the value technology is bringing to the sector.
Moreover, firms are now creating dedicated teams to focus on AI integration. For example, Linklaters recently announced the formation of a 20-strong team of AI lawyers who will deploy across its global network to help identify use cases and embed new working practices.
Ultimately, striking the right balance between maintaining a highly skilled workforce and embracing technological innovation will be key for firms to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing legal market.
2026 is shaping up to be a very interesting year.…
