Why Salary Isn’t Everything: The Benefits Legal Professionals Value Most
When it comes to career moves, salary will always be an important factor – but in today’s legal market, it’s no longer the only deciding point.
From our work with law firms across Yorkshire and the North East, we’re seeing a real shift in priorities. More candidates are weighing up the full package – from flexibility to wellbeing support – before making their next career move.
So, what benefits are legal professionals really valuing right now?
The Most Common (and Popular) Benefits We’re Seeing:
✅ 25–30 days’ holiday (plus buy/sell schemes) – giving people the chance to properly recharge.
✅ Hybrid & flexible working – no longer a “perk” but an expectation for many.
✅ Bonuses – whether performance-based or firm-wide, they make a difference.
✅ Enhanced family leave – maternity, paternity and adoption packages that go beyond statutory.
✅ Career development & training support – firms investing in professional growth.
✅ Health & wellbeing perks – private healthcare, employee assistance programmes and even wellbeing apps.
✅ Extras – pensions above the minimum, life assurance, free parking, social events and more.
Why These Benefits Matter
For many solicitors, paralegals and legal support staff, these benefits directly impact work-life balance, job satisfaction and long-term career decisions.
A slightly higher salary may look attractive at first glance, but if it comes without flexibility, training opportunities or wellbeing support, it may not deliver the balance and progression lawyers are looking for in the long run.
The Takeaway
If you’re considering your next career move, don’t just focus on the salary. Look at the wider benefits package – because this is often what makes the biggest difference to your daily working life and future career satisfaction.
If you’d like to explore current opportunities offering excellent benefits as well as competitive salaries, get in touch for a confidential chat.
Claire Cox is a qualified, non-practising Solicitor, with a comprehensive understanding of the legal profession and a proven track record of delivering results with over 20 years legal recruitment experience.
Visit Bailey Hunter or contact Claire Cox for a confidential chat:
Tel: 0113 3185293 Mob: 07786 224036