Legal evolution: why AFAs (Alternative Fee Arrangements) could be the game-changer you need in your career and Firm

As a corporate or M&A lawyer, you’ve likely spent countless hours tracking time to meet the billable requirements at your Firm.

It’s exhausting, isn’t it?

The constant pressure to demonstrate your commitment through long hours can feel like an uphill battle—especially when you’re also balancing the demands of motherhood.

The billable hour system has long reinforced the idea that value equals time spent, leaving many of you feeling tied to your desks for far longer than you’d like.

But what if there was a way to demonstrate your expertise without the constant grind of billable hours?

That’s where Alternative Fee Arrangements (AFAs) come in—and why I’m here to help you make sense of this evolving model.

Why AFAs matter to you and your Firm

More firms are turning to AFAs to align with client expectations, with 70% of firms already embracing this shift (according to a survey promoted by Litera). Clients are increasingly interested in value-driven work rather than time-driven models, and AFAs are a great way to deliver predictability and trust. Flat fees, in particular, are gaining traction because they offer a straightforward approach to pricing legal work.

Predictability for clients, fosters better relationships.

More importantly for both you and the firm, they create an opportunity to focus on delivering top-tier legal advice without the need to keep one eye on the clock. Forget those long Tetris games at billing deadlines.

But here’s the catch—AFAs require a mindset shift.

Moving away from the comfort zone of billable hours means embracing the idea that quality, efficiency, and strategic thinking should be front and center. This is where I come in. I help corporate and M&A lawyers, like you, navigate the transition, ensuring that you and your firm are prepared for this new way of delivering legal services.

Leverage AFAs for ideal work-life integration

For you, as a lawyer mother and as a lawyer in general, AFAs present a unique opportunity. They give you the chance to break free from the constant pressure to track every minute of your workday.

No more tracking software on your screen?

Let’s be honest—one of the biggest challenges for you is time.

The traditional model of billing by the hour makes it feel as if you’re constantly racing against the clock to prove your worth.

By focusing on delivering value rather than meeting billable targets, you can create a more balanced approach to your career, allowing for greater flexibility in your personal life.

I work closely with lawyer mothers to help them see how they can leverage AFAs to their advantage. Together, we develop strategies that allow you to thrive under these arrangements, ensuring your clients are satisfied and your firm sees your true value—without you having to sacrifice precious time with your family.

Through tailored coaching, I can help you:

• understand the nuances of AFAs;

• demonstrate value without tracking hours;

• position yourself as a forward-thinking lawyer; and (most of all!)

• achieve better work-life integration.

Why it’s important to understand AFAs now

The legal industry is constantly changing, and AFAs are a major part of that evolution. Understanding this shift is critical not just for the future of your career, but for your firm’s success as well.

Firms that can embrace AFAs and communicate the value behind their services will be ahead of the curve in meeting client expectations.

But here’s the thing—this isn’t just a change in billing practices, it’s a change in mindset. It’s about recognizing that your worth as a lawyer doesn’t come from how long you sit at your desk, but from the expertise and results you deliver.

And that’s why having a coach by your side is so important. I guide you through this transition, helping you take full advantage of AFAs while ensuring you have the time and space you need to live your life outside of work.

If you’re ready to explore how AFAs can help you achieve the work-life balance you’ve been craving while enhancing your value to your firm, let’s start a conversation.