Holistic Coaching for Lawyers - an Idea Worth Pursuing

Law firms face a retention crisis that demands immediate attention. Associate turnover is approaching 25 percent and firms could expect more than a 100 percent turnover among associates in the coming five years, according to Thomson Reuters' 2022 State of the Legal Market report. Even more alarming, 72% of associates leave their firm within the first 5 years. The financial impact is devastating: high turnover rates cost the top 400 law firms roughly $9.1 billion annually.

Traditional development models operate on flawed assumptions. They treat all junior associates as potential partners despite declining partnership rates, and they prioritize technical competencies while ignoring emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness—qualities essential for sustainable legal careers.

The disconnect is evident in retention data. More than 60 percent of young lawyers express concern about work-life balance, with this concern greatest for lawyers who are 25 and under (71 percent) and female lawyers (66 percent). Young lawyers seek development that acknowledges their complete identity and varied career aspirations.

The retention crisis makes holistic coaching not just beneficial, but essential for survival. Law firms must embrace comprehensive development approaches that serve the complete needs of young lawyers building the resilient, emotionally intelligent talent that modern legal practice demands. The question isn't whether firms can afford to implement holistic coaching programs—it's whether they can afford not to. Read more at www.linkedin.com/susanbrooks.

9/15/25