
Hybrid work represents a significant shift from the traditional work model to which we’ve become accustomed.
But what exactly is hybrid work, especially in the legal context?
As more lawyers are working hybrid, firms must determine whether to more aggressively adopt this option for their staff moving forward.
What Is a Hybrid Work Environment?
A hybrid workplace model mixes in-office and remote work to offer flexibility and support to employees.
Some workplaces combine remote workers with on-site workers, while others provide some or all employees the flexibility to choose when and where they work.
A hybrid work environment is best suited for employees whose work is computer-based and does not need to be performed on-site.
Is a Hybrid Law Firm Possible?
Firms adopting hybrid work usually allow their attorneys to split their time between remote and in-office work, permitting about 20% to 50% of the time to be from home.
Many advantages can be provided to a law firm transitioning to the hybrid work environment, including the following:
Employee Well-Being
Lawyers working hybrid may find a boost in productivity based on an absence of office disruptions and higher concentration levels.
Additionally, many attorneys may be satisfied without the stress of commuting day in and day out to the office.
It may be easier for many to achieve a healthy work-life balance while still meeting goals and deadlines.
Time Management
A flexible work environment permits many attorneys to manage their work time and complete tasks ahead of deadlines.
With the ability to plan and customize their work hours, lawyers working hybris can be more productive.
Build Employee Trust
When law firms permit a hybrid work environment, they show trust toward their employees.
This trust often turns into attorneys working hard to give their best for their employer.
Negatives of a Hybrid Work Environment
There are downsides to adopting a hybrid model that any law firm should consider. These include the following:
Security Risks
Security is a risk and concern as employees work from home and use their networks and potentially their own devices.
It’s vital to focus on providing employees with security protocols to implement from their home offices.
Management Difficulties
Managers may need help keeping tabs on their employees’ workloads.
Evaluations may be based on the work product rather than the process itself.
Employee Isolation
Some attorneys may desire connection with other attorneys in their firm.
A work-from-home hybrid model makes satisfying this connection more difficult.
Law firms must provide attorneys opportunities to interact and connect through outside work events or other options.
Research of the Right Model
A law firm must work to design and develop a suitable model for its needs.
Multiple variations may need to be tried and tested for a firm to find the best fit for their company’s situation.
Connectivity
Law firms should consider seamless connectivity to permit teams to communicate with each other quickly and efficiently.
Achieving this may entail providing attorneys with a stipend to create a comfortable home office and outsourcing IT professionals to install secured connectivity.
In the future, many law firms may integrate into a hybrid work environment.
While the transition to a hybrid law firm may experience some bumps in the road, leading experts believe this model may be the future of the law industry.
Let Mesilla Legal Center Be Your Workspace
In a world where virtual work is possible and increasingly common, paying for a large, permanent office space can be a waste of money.
Our on-demand legal office spaces at Mesilla Legal Center can help you reduce your overhead and fulfill office space needs while running a remote firm.
We offer professional spaces furnished with wireless internet, video conferencing technology, and features for depositions.
Whenever you need a professional room to prepare for court, meet with employees, or resolve a dispute, you can reserve a space with us.
Call us at (575) 526-6917 or contact us online today to book space.