Lawyers Want More Time, Less Stress, Not More Money

Asked what one aspect of their law practice they would change, if they could, 31 percent of the 300 large law firm and corporate attorneys recently surveyed by Robert Half Legal said they wanted a less stressful work life. And another 30 percent wanted to work fewer hours or increase their personal time.

Only 2 percent said they wanted more more money, the California-based legal consulting firm reports in a press release (PDF).

To try to resolve such concerns and retain talented lawyers, many employers are adding benefits such as flexible and part-time scheduling, job sharing, telecommuting and compressed workweeks, says Charles Volkert, the consultant's executive director, in the release. "Job-related stress and work/life balance issues can lead to employee dissatisfaction and staff turnover, which may decrease a firm’s productivity and directly impact its ability to remain competitive.”

Related coverage:

ABAJournal.com: "How Large Law Firms Motivate: A Better Chance to Advance, Flexible Schedules"

Future Law Office (Robert Half Legal): "Best Practices for Recruiting, Developing and Retaining Top Talent"