Peerpoint by A&O Shearman

How legal consulting works

Peerpoint offers a number of engagement models for lawyers joining our panel. The models available to you will depend on your region and other factors, and our recruitment team will discuss the options with you in more detail.

Below, you’ll find the high-level requirements for each region we operate in, along with initial guidance. You’ll also find answers to the questions we hear most often from candidates.

Being a self-directed lawyer

We ensure you have all the support and resources you need to develop your career, and make a positive impact and meaningful contribution for our clients.

Being a self-directed lawyer Please select a region:

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Being a self-directed lawyer

In the UK we have two engagement models: an employed model and a personal services company (PSC) model. The model used for any engagement you undertake via Peerpoint will be determined by the end client. For external clients, the majority of our assignments are on the basis of the employed model. All engagements within A&O Shearman practice groups, and some external client arrangements, will require a PSC and our team will discuss this with you if you are exploring opportunities where this applies. You do not need to set up a PSC to join Peerpoint.

Where an assignment requires the set up of a PSC, you may want to consider the below.

  • Seek independent advice on IR35. It is important that you understand the tax and financial implications of the IR35 legislation.
  • While you can set up and manage a PSC yourself, we recommend appointing an accountant to help establish and run it.

Discover our recruitment process and our latest legal consulting opportunities in the UK here.

Being a self-directed lawyer

Peerpoint legal consultants in Hong Kong must be self-employed. Before starting an assignment, you will need to set up your own Personal Services Company (PSC). You can set up and manage your PSC yourself; however, most legal consultants prefer to appoint someone to assist them. There are many companies who can assist in the establishment of your company and the on-going requirements, such as business registration.

There are a number of steps to consider after you have set up your PSC. You will need to incorporate your own limited company, of which you will appoint yourself as director and shareholder. The most straightforward and cheapest option is to buy an existing company. As a lawyer, you will be aware that, in the eyes of the law, the company has a life of its own. For example, it will actually be the company that enters into contracts and not you. In most cases, it will also be the company that is responsible for its debts, should there be any. You will have ‘limited liability', which means, in practice, that your personal assets are protected.

Your accountant or tax adviser will advise you on running your company in the most tax efficient manner for your circumstances. It is a legal requirement to have both a registered office (which cannot be a PO Box) and a Company Secretary. Whilst it is possible to fulfil the Company Secretary role yourself, the companies who can assist in the setting up of PSCs also offer company secretarial services and the provision of a registered address.

Your PSC will be required to produce audited accounts. If it makes a profit, it will be liable for profits tax. The companies which assist in the creation of the PSC will be able to recommend Certified Public Accountants to help you with this. They can also help you set up a business bank account, which you will need.

Discover our latest legal consulting opportunities here.


Being a self-directed lawyer

In Australia we have two engagement models for lawyers wanting to join Peerpoint. These models include self-employment via an Incorporated Legal Practice (ILP) and casual employment.

As a self-employed consultant, you would need to set up, own and run your own ILP. An ILP is a company incorporated with the Australian Securities & Investments Commission and will have met various requirements of the law society in your jurisdiction. You would have full control over all aspects of running and managing your business as well as having the flexibility to direct your career and the choice of engagements you accept. Self-employment is also a good option for those who are established in their careers and keen to develop a portfolio career.

Under the casual employment model, you would be engaged directly by A&O Shearman on a casual employment contract. A&O Shearman pays you a day rate for each day worked including superannuation. The advantages of this model include speed of set up, fewer upfront costs, and less administration for you. Casual employment is a great option for those who are new to consulting.

Discover our latest legal consulting opportunities here.

Being a self-directed lawyer

There are a number of steps and requirements to become a self-employed consultant in Singapore and we can discuss these with you in detail. Please contact the team to find out more here.

You can also discover our latest legal consulting opportunities in Singapore here.

Being a self-directed lawyer

There are a number of steps and requirements to become a legal consultant in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To discuss these with you in detail and to find out more, please contact the team here.

You can also discover our latest legal consulting opportunities in the UAE here.

Frequently asked questions

What is Peerpoint?

Peerpoint is A&O Shearman’s global legal consulting platform for lawyers seeking a self-directed career. Consulting with Peerpoint means having the backing of A&O Shearman, with access to the highest quality of work, clients, resources and support.

What are the benefits of legal consulting?

Legal consulting offers wide-ranging benefits, from greater control over your time to more choice and variety in your work. It lets you balance professional and personal priorities, whether that’s family responsibilities, a business idea, studies or hobbies, without putting the rest of your life on hold. You’ll also have more say over the direction of your career, working with different clients, sectors and teams, including within A&O Shearman in some cases, and the flexibility to accept or decline potential assignments.

What is the benefit of joining Peerpoint instead of working independently or through another platform?

Joining Peerpoint means having the backing of one of the world’s largest law firms with knowledge and training resources, an up-to-date understanding of market developments and longstanding client relationships that open the door to career-progressing opportunities. As a member of our panel, you’ll get dedicated support from our consultant management team, including CV and marketing document training, exclusive networking events and a development programme focused on transition management, mindset and business planning. You’ll also have access to a range of A&O Shearman resources; including client publications, seminars, further training, alumni and mentoring networks and pro bono opportunities, plus, while on assignment, an A&O Shearman partner or senior lawyer contact, knowledge lawyers and research and library resources.

Do I have enough experience to become a legal consultant with Peerpoint?

Legal consulting isn’t just for partners or the very experienced. We typically look for at least two to four years’ post-qualification experience at a top-tier law firm in your area of specialism, ensuring you have sufficient training to hit the ground running and work with limited supervision. Demand for very senior roles, such as partner, general counsel or head of legal, is more limited, so we don’t often recruit for the panel at that level.

What do I need to consider before becoming a legal consultant?

Before becoming a legal consultant, think about what you want to achieve. whether that’s more variety, new skills or a better balance between work and personal projects. Identifying your motivations will help you decide if Peerpoint is right for you. It’s also important to remember that legal consulting doesn’t guarantee continuous work, so plan for potential gaps between assignments and consider your personal finances, ideally with advice from an accountant or financial planner. While we can’t guarantee work, we’re fully invested in supporting you to achieve your goals.

What areas of legal expertise are in demand for legal consultants?

Demand varies with our clients’ needs, but the areas we most often resource include capital markets (particularly derivatives and debt capital markets), financial services regulation, banking and finance (typically general lending and leveraged finance), banking disputes and investigations, corporate M&A and commercial law (including data privacy) and employment. We only invite lawyers to join our panel when we’re confident there’s enough demand for their expertise and experience level.

Will my post qualification experience level continue if I become a legal consultant?

Your post-qualification experience (PQE) level is based on the experience you’ve actually gained, not simply the years since qualification. So it depends on how much of the year you’re working and whether your roles are in a similar area of expertise.

What type of work does a legal consultant do?

As a Peerpoint legal consultant, you can take on assignments with A&O Shearman or with our external clients. We’ll discuss the types of roles you’re looking for and match you to suitable opportunities, which can range from major transactions and regulatory change projects to supporting business-as-usual work during busy periods. You may also have the opportunity to work with A&O Shearman on an ad-hoc basis, joining teams when needed or for fixed periods on a deal.

How long are legal consultant assignments?

Most assignments last at least six months, though shorter placements are sometimes available, and typically require a minimum of four days a week.

Does Peerpoint or A&O Shearman employ me?

Your employment status depends on several factors, mainly the operating model in place in your region. We’ll walk you through the options in detail during recruitment, but you can read an outline of our regional models on this page: https://www.peerpoint.com/join-our-panel/how-consulting-works

How are consulting rates determined?

Consulting rates vary by assignment and depend on several factors. During your interview, we’ll discuss current market rates and give you guidance on what you can expect to be paid. Once you’re on the panel, you’ll agree a rate for each opportunity based on your experience and skills, the client’s requirements and current market conditions as a daily rate, hourly rate or monthly salary, depending on how the assignment is structured.

As a legal consultant, would I be covered by A&O Shearman’s professional indemnity insurance?

Yes, as a Peerpoint consultant working for A&O Shearman or a client, you’re covered by A&O Shearman’s professional indemnity policy for advice given through Peerpoint while on assignment. If you plan to work for other parties or on your own account, you should also consider taking out a personal professional indemnity policy.

What is the process for joining Peerpoint?

Our recruitment process is thorough, so we can find the right clients and assignments for you, and so you can decide if we’re the right fit too. It typically involves five steps: application, a Peerpoint interview, an A&O Shearman partner interview, a technical assessment for certain practice areas and personal referencing. We’ll work with you to understand your timeframes and progress your application as swiftly as possible. Further information and how to apply can be found on our recruitment page here.

Do I need to resign before starting the recruitment process with Peerpoint?

No, you don’t need to resign before starting the recruitment process. But because temporary roles often come with short notice, you’ll likely need to take a leap of faith at some point rather than waiting for a confirmed role before resigning. That’s why it’s worth researching the market thoroughly and understanding demand for your skill set before you start exploring legal consulting.

Do I need to set up a Personal Services Company (PSC) or Incorporated Legal Practice (ILP) before I apply?

No, you don’t need to set up a Personal Services Company (PSC), Incorporated Legal Practice (ILP) or bank account before you meet us. We’ll give you all the information you need during the recruitment process and discuss the right timing together.

Can I continue to do other work while not on an assignment with Peerpoint?

Yes, you’re free to take on other work between assignments. We just ask that you keep us updated on your activity, both for conflicts purposes and so we know when you’re available for roles through Peerpoint.

Can I be a legal consultant and work remotely?

It depends on the client. Many now operate a hybrid model, and consultants are typically expected to follow the same pattern as permanent employees. Being upfront about your working pattern preferences during recruitment helps us advise you on what’s achievable with our clients.

Will becoming a legal consultant impact affect my ability to obtain permanent roles in future?

Not at all, time spent consulting can actually be a strong stepping stone towards a specific permanent role, helping you build new skills along the way. Consulting doesn’t have to be a permanent move: we encourage lawyers to be upfront about their goals, so you can get the most from the experience with our support. The high calibre of Peerpoint work only strengthens your CV for whatever comes next. We do ask consultants to commit to the length of an assignment, but if you move into a permanent role afterwards, we fully support that and we’re always here if you decide to return to consulting.
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