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Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the way that Lawyers on Demand works for the lawyers on the programme.  If you have any other questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact Jonathan Brenner (jonathan.brenner@blplaw.com).

What is Lawyers on Demand?

The Lawyers on Demand service provides a new option for high quality lawyers looking for an alternative way of working to suit their lifestyle. It comprises a flexible pool of high quality freelance lawyers working with BLP’s clients at their offices on a contract basis, vetted and supported by BLP. You will be supported by BLP resources including knowledge management, training and IT.

What type of clients will I be working with?

Lawyers on Demand clients have included both blue-chip organisations and smaller growth companies.  They have included major telecoms network operators, publishers, international banks and software business.

What sort of lawyers have joined the scheme so far?

You will be joining a team of lawyers from a variety of backgrounds.  All of the lawyers wish to combine their legal careers with other priorities, whether that may be parenting, travelling or pursuing other ambitions.  Lawyers on Demand allows them to do this with the backing of a top City law firm. 

What is the benefit to the client?

We are experiencing increasing demand from clients and contacts for additional resource for their in-house legal teams. Experience and recent surveys indicate that this is set to continue. Although on some occasions BLP can provide this resource through secondment, there are many times when this is not appropriate or possible. Traditional locum services are not considered a real option by many in-house teams due to a perception that locums come unknown and quality is variable. Through the Lawyers on Demand service, BLP will have pre-vetted the lawyers. Clients will be offered one or more possible lawyers who fit the profile they require. In short, BLP will be able to offer a vetted supported resource that has the benefits of a secondment but with additional flexibility for both the client and for you.

What is the benefit to me?

The Lawyers on Demand service will allow you to work flexibly (whether part or full-time, limited hours or limited times of the year) on a project-by-project basis. You trade the certainty and rigidity of employee status with a flexible way of working to match your requirements. It appeals particularly to qualified lawyers who have historically opted out of standard private practice or in-house roles for lifestyle reasons (whether child care, travel or other reasons) to have more control and/or time.

What is the benefit to BLP?

BLP is known as a client-focused and innovative firm. This reputation is enhanced by the Lawyers on Demand service which enables us to be seen as responding pro-actively and creatively to the needs and wishes of in-house lawyers.  The service allows us to build on existing relationships and develop new ones as well as reducing the opportunity cost of secondments.

What is the process for vetting lawyers for quality and ensuring that they understand the BLP approach? 

There is a two stage interview procedure including technical tests to ensure that all lawyers made available through the Lawyers on Demand service are of a suitable quality standard. This is further supported by the firm’s training and knowledge management services. We have developed a full training and induction programme to ensure the lawyers have sufficient knowledge of the firm and are well equipped to provide a high quality client service.

What will be the relationship between me, BLP and the client?

Each of you and the client will contract with BLP. This direct relationship will allow us to best manage payment and liability issues.  Although you will be based outside the BLP office, we ensure that you have ample opportunity to meet other members of the scheme and the broader firm.