Four-day work week boosts turnover and productivity at Manchester-based law firm

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IMD Solicitors, a Manchester-based law firm, introduced a four-day work week six months ago and has reported positive impacts as a result of the change, including an increase in turnover and improved wellbeing.

Speaking at the Lawshare annual conference last week, Managing Partner Marcin Durlak said the past six months have been a success, with turnover up by 22%. Durlak also reported increased productivity and improved wellbeing. He highlighted that the firm believes in maximising time efficiency, which is why the change works. Durlak said: “It is not about cramming 47 hours into four days, it is about the way we work. In the day [previously] there will be 20% of time that produces no benefit. On top of that you can use AI tools to save time.” Iwona Durlak, IMD co-founder, also noted that clients hadn’t noticed the change.

The firm introduced the four-day working week at the end of last year: employees are still paid their full salary and can choose their day off with the firm ensuring that there’s not too much overlap and partners are on hand when required (eg, if an urgent court date comes up).

Durlak compared the current conversation to the debate about introducing the two-day weekend in the 19th Century, which was a surprising change at the time but is now standard. He believes the four-day week puts the firm ahead by establishing a positive culture.

Bobby Ahmed, employment law solicitor and managing partner of London firm Neathouse Partners, was also at the Lawshare conference but expressed his concerns about the four-day week instead. Ahmed highlighted that, while the four-day work week may work well for a litigation firm, it’s less possible in his practice area because lawyers must be available at all times for emergencies.