Florence McDonald

"I now set my professional boundaries and can take control over the type of work I want to do, which has meant I have been able to gain experience across areas I previously would not have."

The traditional legal career path isn't as attractive as it once was. The industry is evolving as more and more people are turning to alternative models in search of more choice and control over their careers.

In my case, I'm a debt finance lawyer and left my role at a US law firm to enrol on a fine art foundation year. Art has always been an interest of mine but I wanted to carve out some time to fully immerse myself, although I wasn't planning a whole career change. After graduating, I decided to return to law but this time determined to keep space for my personal interests and maintain a work-life balance that worked for me. Peerpoint was a great option for me; they know the market and have been expanding to meet an increasing demand for consultant lawyers of different levels.

I now set my professional boundaries and can take control over the type of work I want to do, which has meant I have been able to gain experience across areas that previously I would not have had the chance to. This has allowed me to diversify my skills and network so much faster, whilst still dedicating the time I want to my interests outside work. It’s liberating and empowering.

Florence McDonald was a Peerpoint consultant from 2018 to 2023. 

A&O Shearman was formed on 1 May 2024 by the combination of Shearman & Sterling LLP and Allen & Overy LLP and their respective affiliates (the legacy firms). This consultant profile may include reference to roles/assignments generated by one or more of the legacy firms rather than A&O Shearman.