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Associates unhappy at work?

26 November 2025
Issue: 8141 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Career focus
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Associates are the least happy fee-earners in the office, Chambers and Partners’ Leading Teams survey, published this week, has found

Two out of five plan to leave their firm in the next five years. Only 61% scored high levels of job satisfaction, compared to 76% of trainees, 75% of partners and 85% of department heads.

More than half the associates (55%) felt their stress levels were unmanageable. However, their stress levels were determined by whether they felt partners were on their side rather than hours worked or levels of responsibility.

One in four felt they had no one to go to for help if they felt overwhelmed. 

Lisa Hart Shepherd, chief product and innovation officer, Chambers and Partners, said firms faced ‘a significant flight risk’ and needed to ‘invest in developing their people’.

Issue: 8141 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Career focus
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MOVERS & SHAKERS

NLJ Career Profile: Kate Gaskell, Flex Legal

NLJ Career Profile: Kate Gaskell, Flex Legal

Kate Gaskell, CEO of Flex Legal, reflects on chasing her childhood dreams underscores the importance of welcoming those from all backgrounds into the profession

Dorsey & Whitney—Jonathan Christy

Dorsey & Whitney—Jonathan Christy

Dispute resolution team welcomes associate in London

Winckworth Sherwood—Kevin McManamon

Winckworth Sherwood—Kevin McManamon

Special education needs and mental capacity expert joins as partner

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