Is there much point in being a corporate solicitor outside of London?

[erpho]

Of course there is point in lawyers for work which helps the public. But for high ticket corporate work?

I think I’m a bit disillusioned with life in London as a corporate lawyer. I work 9am-9pm on normal days and longer whenever needed. Yes I’m paid very very well, but property costs in London have gone utterly utterly nuts since interest rates have gone up. You can’t really build wealth anymore.

I’ve looked at moving to Bristol or to Manchester, but they pay is dismal. Our trainees earn more than newly qualified lawyers in the regions.

Not a lawyer OP but surely it's the total COL not just salary to consider. Especially as you get taxed the more you earn.
I moved from london to manchester because 40K would let me buy a nice house (drive, garden) in a decent area here 20 mins drive or 10 min drive to the city when i go in. But I am a homebody and appreciate the space.

Have you thought of moving in house to a general counsel position, company lawyer, whatever level matches your experience? I moved in house as another profession and swapped the 7am-11pm for 8.30-6 with most days WFH. Obviously I have busy periods 7am-11pm but the bonuses make it worth my bother.

Don’t be fooled into thinking London is the only place to be. It used to be the case but not anymore.

So many employers are now willing to offer significant amounts of flexibility allowing you to work elsewhere.

I used to work in London but asked if my employer would allow me to relocate and primarily WFH. They agreed and I now get the same 200k salary while living in an infinitely cheaper, more pleasant part of the country. My standard of living has gone through the roof and I’ll now be able to retire far earlier than planned which is great.

I’m not sure my employer would have advertised my current role with the location perks I benefit from however once you have proven to them your value they will invariably be happy to be very flexible to help retain you.

I also don’t work the same crazy hours that I used to in London. 9-5 or 6 is the absolute limit.