Flexible and hybrid working

We support a wide range of arrangements, agreed informally where possible or through a simple formal process when needed.

• Adjusted start and finish times.
• Part-time working or reduced hours.
• Compressed hours, for example a nine-day fortnight.
• Hybrid or fully remote working, where the role allows.
• Temporary adjustments, for example during caring responsibilities.
• Phased return after family leave or illness, and the option to discuss sabbaticals.

Everyone has the statutory right to request flexible working from day one of employment. You can make two formal requests in any 12-month period.

How we make it work together

Flexibility works when we stay client-focused and team-minded.

• Agree the pattern with your leader so client service is seamless.
• Use office days for mentoring, training and collaboration.
• Keep information secure and record time accurately.
• Fee-earners have a full-time annual chargeable-hours target of 1,200, with clear guidance on recording time.

We also design our bonus approach to discourage over-work and prevent burnout, prioritising sustainable performance.

Independent data shows our juniors work some of the shortest average days in the UK top-100, while still getting complex, hands-on work. Legal Cheek’s latest research places Moore Barlow at the bottom of the long-hours league, with typical days of about 8 hours 29 minutes and average start and finish times around 08:52 to 17:21. We are proud of that balance because it enables better learning and better client focus.

Our stance is clear: being at the bottom of that table does not mean an easier ride. Trainees and juniors handle challenging, high-stakes matters with real responsibility, during business hours and with close support from associates and partners. It builds lawyers who thrive for the long term.

Requesting flexibility

Most changes start with a simple conversation with your leader. If a formal change is better, our policy sets out an easy process:

• Submit a short form that explains the change and when you’d like it to start.
• We meet to discuss it, usually within 28 days.
• We respond as soon as possible and always within two months, and can agree a full change, a trial period or a temporary arrangement.
• If we cannot agree, we explain the business reasons and you can appeal within 14 days.

To keep collaboration strong and clients well-served, we:

• Plan team office days in advance and protect focus time.
• Use technology for multi-office client meetings to save time and travel.
• Support wellbeing through our Mindful Business Charter membership and wider health benefits.

Three real-world examples

• Compressed hours for caring. A senior associate works a nine-day fortnight, with handovers built into team workflows so clients get continuity.
• Hybrid pattern for study. A paralegal works two home days each week while completing a qualification, with planned office days for training and supervision.
• Temporary change in working pattern. A Senior Legal Assistant’s child is starting Year R. To support their child during this key transition, it has been informally agreed that their work pattern will be temporarily adjusted on a short-term basis to accommodate drop off and pick up’s.

Why it works here

We combine high-calibre work with a people-first culture. The firm actively supports balance through a 35-hour week, realistic billable expectations and hybrid working from the start in most roles. That mix helps people do their best work and build long, sustainable careers.