Who we are
At Spencer West, we believe there is a better way to practise law.
Many senior lawyers reach a point in their careers where they want greater control over their clients, their time, and their future. Some consider starting their own law firm, but are reluctant to give up the support, collaboration, and professional community that comes with being part of something bigger.
At Spencer West, you can be in business for yourself, but never by yourself.
We are a leading full-service international law firm built around a modern, entrepreneurial model that enables lawyers to run and grow their own practices without practising alone. Our community of more than 360 partners across 25+ jurisdictions combines the independence of business ownership with the support, resources and connectivity of an established international firm.
Everything we do is guided by our core values of collaboration, entrepreneurship and excellence. We work seamlessly across borders, share opportunities generously, and help one another build successful practices while delivering exceptional service to clients.
The opportunity
If you have ever considered launching your own practice but are hesitant about going it alone, Spencer West could be the ideal next step.
We provide the platform, infrastructure and international network that allows you to focus on what matters most: your clients, your expertise and the growth of your practice. Spencer West offers a proven model for ambitious lawyers who want to build something of their own.
With Spencer West, you can:
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Run your own practice while benefiting from the reputation and support of an established international law firm
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Maintain your independence without the isolation and operational challenges of practising alone
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Access comprehensive support across compliance, finance, billing, marketing, technology and practice management
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Collaborate with high-calibre lawyers across multiple jurisdictions and practice areas
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Benefit from a strong referral culture and opportunities for cross-border client work
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Work flexibly, with control over where, when and how you practise
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Be rewarded transparently for the work you do and the business you generate
Who we look for
We are interested in speaking with experienced lawyers who want the autonomy of running their own practice while remaining part of a collaborative and supportive professional community.
Legal expertise: You will be an established and respected lawyer, typically with at least 8 years' post-qualification experience. Our partners come from leading City, national and international firms, senior in-house positions, boutique practices and independent firms.
Entrepreneurial mindset: You are excited by the prospect of building your own practice and taking greater ownership of your professional future. You may be looking to operate as an individual practitioner or have ambitions to build and grow a team around you.
Client-centric: You will have an established or developing client following and enjoy building long-term client relationships. While Spencer West provides a highly collaborative environment, strong internal referral networks and opportunities to work with colleagues across jurisdictions and practice areas, partners are expected to generate and grow their own client relationships and sources of work. This opportunity is best suited to lawyers who are excited by the prospect of building their own practice and taking ownership of its success.
Collaborative approach: While you value independence, you do not want to work in isolation. You enjoy sharing ideas, introducing opportunities, collaborating with trusted colleagues and being part of a community of like-minded professionals.
Essential Requirements
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An active practising certificate/ license to practice law in one of Spencer West's existing jurisdictions.
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Willingness to operate on a self‑employed basis (as a sole trader or via a limited company – your choice).
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Able to work remote first or work from one of our local offices.
Our recruitment & onboarding process
Our process is designed to be straightforward, professional and efficient.
Step 1 Introductory video call with a member of the Talent Acquisition team.
Step 2 First meeting* with a member of the senior management team in the relevant jurisdiction.
Step 3 Second meeting* with another member of the management team or with a colleague from a relevant location or practice area.
Step 4 Background checks are conducted.
Step 5 Onboarding & training on our systems and meeting various members of our support team (including marketing, accounts and technology).
(*Meetings may be held virtually or in person, depending on candidate location & availability)
If you are looking for a firm that allows you to practise at the highest level, grow your business, and work on your own terms, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV online to be considered.
