Life at Bristows

Name: Bristows
Price range: $$$

Welcome to Bristows

We’re a leading law firm because of our people. We comprise world leading experts and support teams who enable us to operate as we do. The one thing we all have in common is that we’re pretty normal, welcoming and down to earth. So, whilst it’s an exciting and hard-working environment, we know that people have a life outside work too.

What shapes us?

Results from our most recent engagement survey, BEngaged, show that...

of employees have an acceptable work life balance

of employees feel trusted to work autonomously

of employees really enjoy the quality of work

of employees feel management provides clear leadership and direction

Focus on quality

One of the big differences between us and other firms is our absence of billing targets…

As we see it, everyone’s better off without them, because rather than being under pressure to hit numbers, our lawyers are free to focus on adding value at every turn.

This makes for a refreshingly conscientious, autonomous working environment, where colleagues can work to their individual strengths as they focus all their efforts on the task at hand. We think it is a more human way to practise law. And for our clients, the result is work is consistently of the highest quality.

Flexible working

We’ve all seen the benefits of remote working...

It’s convenient and efficient. It can also help productivity, encourage diversity and inclusion, and do wonders for family and work-life balance.

But we need to come together in the office too: 100 Victoria Embankment is the mainstay of our culture and success, it’s where we take care of each other, build relationships and collaborate in a way that’s more powerful and rewarding.

Our Flexible Working policy is designed to give the best of both worlds, enabling you to choose how and where to work based on the tasks and activities you have coming up. In general, you can expect to spend at least half your time in the office, although this will vary week to week. Your manager can help you decide the balance that’s best.

Size and scope

We’re by no means the biggest players in the City, but our ambition burns more fiercely than most...

It’s one of the reasons we’re able to handle the sort of work you’d normally associate with only the largest firms.

Of course, the breadth, depth and strength of our legal expertise is another. Better still, that expertise is evolving and expanding all the time. Our size and lack of rigid hierarchy means our people enjoy more responsibility, challenge and face-to-face client time than they might elsewhere.

“Bristows has fantastic experts with incredible knowledge, diplomacy and commerciality.”

Chambers & Partners 2026

“The team take the time to learn their clients' risk tolerance and preferences.”

Legal 500 2026

Wellbeing and benefits at Bristows

Our comprehensive benefits package is built around four key pillars: physical health, financial, lifestyle, and mental health and wellbeing, designed to give you the support you need, wherever you need it most. Scroll through the benefits we offer below:

Physical health benefits
We provide a range of physical wellbeing benefits to support you in maintaining and improving your health. These benefits are designed to help you access the care you need, stay active, and manage your physical wellbeing effectively, promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Private Medical Insurance

Healthcare cash plan

Life assurance

Health screening
Financial wellbeing & benefits
Our financial wellbeing provider has put together a programme that is designed to help you understand your own situation and empower you to make informed financial decisions now, and to plan for your future.

Group pension scheme

Life assurance

Pension guidance 1:1s
Lifestyle and social wellbeing
Our lifestyle and social wellbeing benefits are designed to help you feel connected, supported, and engaged. They encourage a positive work–life balance, strengthen connections with colleagues, and promote a sense of belonging both within and beyond the workplace.

Travel insurance

Cycle to work scheme

Gym discounts

Travel loan

Sports teams

Inclusion networks
Mental Health & wellbeing programme
At Bristows, we have a comprehensive programme designed to support the wellbeing of our staff and partners, both in and outside the workplace. We pride ourselves on our friendly culture and genuine interest in how our colleagues are really feeling, fostering a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing and prioritising their wellbeing.

Wellbeing Champions – James Boon & Marek Petecki help to shape the wellbeing programme and promote engagement with the wider agenda.

Monthly meditation – led by Nischay Mall (Associate), we offer monthly meditation sessions.

Pilates – we host monthly Pilates classes for all employees.

Mindful Business Charter (MBC) – a membership that aims to promote better mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

Mental Health First Aiders – at the firm who are trained to recognise the signs of a person experiencing poor mental health.

24/7 counselling service
Family, parental, and carers support
We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for families, parents and carers. Our approach is grounded in our DEI commitments, ensuring that all colleagues feel valued to thrive both personally and professionally.

Regardless of gender, eligible employees are entitled to 52 weeks of parental leave, with 26 weeks full pay.

Peppy provides support to employees with Menopause, Fertility and supports your baby before and after arrival.

Paid time off and dedicated support for employees who experience pregnancy loss or who are caring for a baby receiving neonatal care.

Access emergency backup childcare, informative webinars, articles and online resources to help you manage the demands of work and family.

Through KareHero, employees can access personalised one-to-one consultations, expert legal advice on care funding and legal matters and emergency support for those critical moments.

Paid leave for employees who need time off to manage caring responsibilities.