As September approaches, the London legal market is heading into one of its most active recruitment periods in recent years. Before partners broke for the summer, we were already mandated on a number of significant opportunities, and from our conversations with leading US and City firms, we’re expecting a steady flow of new roles to emerge in line with growing market confidence.
We’ve also seen a clear shift in the pace of legal recruitment compared to the same period last year:
- 82% more candidates interviewing across July and August 2025 compared to July and August 2024.
- Average time from first interview to offer reduced from 90 days in 2024 to just 35 days in 2025 across our global offices.
The message is clear: there are plenty of opportunities at the top end of the market, with approvals already in place and partners ready to hire. For candidates, that means roles are moving faster than before — and preparation is essential.
Legal Recruitment in London: Why Q4 Matters
September is traditionally one of the busiest months for recruitment in London, as partners return from summer breaks, hiring committees reconvene, and mandates are pushed through before year-end. This year, however, the cycle started early — with July and August among the busiest on record — signalling how firms are accelerating hiring in response to shifting market conditions. Inflationary pressures remain, but interest rates have steadied, political headwinds have eased, and transactional activity is showing signs of recovery. For law firms, that means locking in strategic hires before competition intensifies further.
If you’re sitting on the fence, learn about your options now, so you can make an informed decsion — it’s easy to get left behind. Competition intensifies, particularly among mid-level and senior associates in disputes, funds, finance, private equity, and M&A. - Andrew Francois - Senior Consultant at Sonder
How Associates Should Prepare for a Move
If you’re thinking about a move, preparation is everything. A few practical steps:
- Sharpen your CV and deal sheet – Don’t leave this until the last minute. Firms will move quickly in Q4, and presentation matters.
- Clarify your objectives – Be honest with yourself about what you want, both short and long term.
- Define your motivations – Is it money? Better work? Culture? The chance to work with a particular partner or under a global brand? Get clear on what matters most.
- Work with a trusted recruiter – A good recruiter will refine your search, position your profile, and make sure the firms you look at genuinely line up with your ambitions.
- Research the market – Know where the demand is, how PQE equivalence works, and which firms are hiring at your level.
- Be realistic about timing – Recruitment processes can move quickly once interviews start, but onboarding and notice periods mean you’ll want to plan a few months ahead.
- Prepare for interviews early – Think about your key matters and deal highlights now. Being able to talk confidently about your responsibilities is what sets candidates apart.
- Factor in relocation logistics – If you’re overseas, don’t overlook visas, relocation costs, and timing. These things matter just as much as the role itself.
- Reconnect with your network – Quietly touch base with references or mentors who may be useful sounding boards.
- Think long term – Look beyond the first year. Where will this role take you in three to five years’ time?
Final Thoughts on the London Legal Market
With significantly more candidates interviewing and time-to-offer cycles dramatically shorter than last year, associates who prepare now will be best placed to secure the right opportunity and make a confident career move.
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