Suitcases left unpacked

Two out of five lawyers opted not to take all their annual leave last year, new research has found.

The results of the Robert Walters Career Lifestyle survey provide a fascinating insight into the hard-working culture of the legal profession. One-third of those who gave up part of their annual leave blamed pressure to complete work projects on time. Some 13% feared falling behind in their work, and a further 13% felt guilty about leaving colleagues to cover for their absence.

Sam Walters, associate director at Robert Walters, said the research showed an increased workload across a range of sectors, particularly in financial services where many businesses face tight deadlines on compliance, in commercial property and in banking litigation.

Walters warned: “With the majority of legal employers facing talent shortages it is vital that managers recognise the importance of a good work life balance among their team, including encouraging their staff to use their annual leave.”