The legal profession is notorious for its demanding hours. The Bloomberg Law Attorney Workload & Hours Survey, a biannual peek into the lives of lawyers across the United States, aimed to look at the specifics of the legal industry's reputation for demanding workloads.

The latest survey, which looked at data from Q3 and Q4 of 2023, paints a familiar picture: busy lawyers, long hours, and a concerning connection to burnout.

Key Takeaways from the Survey

Lawyers interviewed for the Bloomberg survey reported working an average of 53 hours per week. While that might seem manageable, the number jumps significantly for those focused on billable hours. Nearly 20% of these attorneys billed over 80 hours in their busiest week – two full workweeks crammed into one.

Satisfaction Disconnect for In-House Attorneys

There's a clear link between workload and job satisfaction. In-house attorneys with the heaviest workloads reported the lowest satisfaction scores. The same goes for lawyers at law firms. This suggests a strong correlation between long hours and burnout.

Almost Half of Respondents Feels Burnt Out

Disrupted sleep, anxiety, and depression were the most commonly reported work-related issues. Almost half (47%) of respondents said they experienced burnout in the past six months. This number highlights the significant well-being challenges faced by lawyers.

A Cause for Concern

A Legal Cheek report from Q3 of 2023 indicated junior lawyers are working 12-hour work days at several major law firms across the United States. “For a sustainable legal profession, we've got to do some work in this space,” said Elizabeth Rimmer, the CEO of LawCare, an organization that promotes and supports better mental health across the legal sector. “Otherwise, we're at risk of losing people who are put off coming into the legal profession because of its reputation.”

While the long hours culture in law firms might be an open secret, the survey results underline the negative impact it has on lawyers' well-being. Exhaustion, mental health struggles, and difficulty disconnecting from work are all commonplace.

What Can Be Done to Prioritize the Well-Being of Lawyers?

The Bloomberg survey doesn't offer easy solutions, but it does spark important conversations. Law firms and in-house legal departments need to prioritize lawyer well-being. This could involve:

• Promoting work-life balance: Encouraging reasonable work hours and time off can significantly reduce burnout.

• Alternative billing models: Exploring alternative billing structures that go beyond just billable hours could lessen pressure.

• Prioritizing mental health: Offering mental health resources and fostering a culture that encourages help-seeking behavior can make a big difference.

The Bloomberg Law Workload & Hours Survey serves as a stark reminder of the need for change within the legal profession. Lawyers are essential, but they can't be effective advocates if they're burned out. By prioritizing well-being, the legal industry can create a more sustainable and healthy work environment for all.