2017 Legal Industry Market Update : Support Staff
2017 Legal Industry Trends: Support Staff
In this article we will be discussing the market trends in relation to Legal Support staff. We will cover the areas of law that are currently in demand and what legal support candidates are asking for.
The first half of 2017 indicates that Legal Support candidates are harder than usual to find, particularly those at an intermediate level, they are being snapped up very quickly!
Excellent legal support candidates generally are receiving multiple offers, so firms really need to focus on what sets them apart.
Currently in 2017, the areas of law we are seeing high demand for are:
· Commercial Litigation
· Commercial
· Family
· Float
· Insurance (Defendant)
· Personal injury (Plaintiff)
· Property
The Support roles we are being asked to fill continue to be replacement roles rather than being a result of company growth.
We are also experiencing an increase in Temp and short term contract positions in 2017. This is as a result of a shortage of support staff candidates.
So what are candidates asking for?
Flexibility
More and more often we are seeing candidates who want to work flexible hours. Unfortunately in the legal support field these roles are still quite rare. They are in huge demand from quality candidates. We are seeing some firms offer flexible start and finish times in their roles to accommodate demands for flexibility.
Information
We are also seeing that Candidates are after lots of detail in relation to a prospective Employer. We are finding that Candidates are wanting to see position descriptions, and have a good understanding of company culture, team structure, future career opportunities and progression., as well as why the previous incumbent has left the role.
Career
We are finding that Legal Secretaries increasingly want to be more involved in the work they do. This is to help them develop their knowledge, career prospects and overall job satisfaction.
Location
Suburban roles are no longer in demand. Candidates seem to be keen to work in the CBD! This is based on a perception of higher salaries being offered in the CBD. It is also related to a requirement for clear career progression opportunities, to work with up to date technology and to enjoy the social aspects of working in the CBD.
Money
In 2017 support staff salaries have increased. We are seeing that Senior Legal Assistants are expecting between $77,000 and $80,000 packages.
We are also experiencing a closing in the gap of salaries offered by top tier law firms and boutique firms. In some instances the boutiques are offering a higher pay.
What’s motivating candidates?
More than ever we are seeing the forces that motivate candidates change. It’s not just all about money! Motivating factors to move from their current role are:
· Career development- being more involved with file work and expanding their knowledge
· Working environment and Office/ Team culture
· Flexibility and part time roles
· Working for less fee-earners
· Firm benefits
· Team dynamics
· Job security and stability
· Training and induction programs
· Geographical relocation
· Social aspects
· Salary increases
In summary, if you are a talented candidate in the Legal Support field in Melbourne, this is a great year to be looking for a new role!
If you would like more information around current market salaries for Legal Support Staff - reach out to us! You can also compare your salary via our live salary update website, Legal Salary.
