Senior associates named UK law firms’ unhappiest cohort
updated on 25 November 2025
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Senior associates are reportedly the least satisfied cohort of fee earners at UK law firms, according to a recent Leading Teams report.
The report, using data from 1,680 lawyers working at 110 top law firms and published by Chambers and Partners, found that only 61% reported high levels of job satisfaction. This was compared with 76% of trainees, 75% of partners and 85% of department heads, with two-in-five associates claiming they don’t plan to remain at their current firm beyond five years. The results from the report also showed that while salary was a key driver for those considering a move (23%), day-to-day happiness and engagement was more closely linked to:
- the ability to do high-quality work;
- feeling comfortable being themselves; and
- confidence in partners’ commitment to developing future leaders.
Culture also played a significant role, with 83% of associates in supportive, team-based environments stating they were motivated to perform their best.
Associates considering a move said they were most tempted by firms with strong reputations and improved benefits. Mills & Reeve, Burges Salmon, Birketts LLP, Osborne Clarke LLP and Farrer & Co LLP were the most attractive destinations for those at national or regional firms. International firm associates favoured Bird & Bird, Kirkland & Ellis International LLP, Latham & Watkins, Clifford Chance and A&O Shearman, while US firm associates looked to Latham & Watkins, Paul, Weiss, Kirkland & Ellis International LLP, A&O Shearman and White & Case LLP.
The report provided an insight into the motivation of lawyers who reach this pivotal stage in their careers and its results may prove valuable for firm strategies and retention tactics.
