The Modern Freelance Lawyer: A Guide to the Business, Ethics, and Evolution of Freelance Legal Work - Softcover

Cowling, Erin C.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1069467111 ISBN 13: 9781069467119

Publisher: Flex Legal Network inc., 2025

Synopsis

Step off the traditional path. Step into the future of law.

Freelance lawyering is no longer just an emerging concept — it’s a respected, flexible, and sustainable way to build a legal career on your own terms.

Whether you’re an experienced lawyer seeking more freedom, a new call exploring non-traditional paths, or a law firm looking to integrate freelance support, The Modern Freelance Lawyer is your essential guide to this growing movement.

With over a decade of firsthand experience, Erin C. Cowling shares everything you need to know to thrive in this evolving space. You’ll learn:

• What freelance lawyering is (and isn’t)
• How to launch and grow your freelance legal practice
• Where to find lawyer clients — and how to keep them
• Financial, ethical, and technology considerations
• Advice for hiring lawyers working with freelance lawyers

Packed with actionable tips, real-world insights, and ready-to-use templates, this book is both a roadmap and a rallying cry for a more modern, human approach to the practice of law.

“With the rise of remote work and legal tech, freelance lawyering isn’t just an option—it’s a movement. Erin Cowling’s book is an invaluable resource for lawyers exploring nontraditional paths and for firms looking to integrate freelance attorneys into their practice.”
— Laurie Rowen, Co-Owner/Founder, Freelance Attorney Platform, Montage Legal Group

“The Modern Freelance Lawyer fills an important gap in the literature about how lawyers are actually practicing law today. Erin Cowling has provided a clear and comprehensive guide to this long-overlooked area of lawyering.”
— Adam Dodek, LSM, Professor and Dean Emeritus, University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law

“I wish this book existed when I started my freelance practice! The Modern Freelance Lawyer is a smart and accessible guide, written in a friendly, conversational tone by someone who clearly knows the terrain. It’s packed with practical tips—and the sample freelance lawyer agreement alone is worth the price of the book.”
— Erica Toews, Freelance Lawyer, Erica Toews Legal Research

About this title

About the Author

Erin C. Cowling is a lawyer, entrepreneur, and former Big Law corporate commercial litigator. She started her freelance lawyer practice in 2013 which evolved a few years later into Flex Legal Network Inc., a pioneering platform that connects law firms and in-house legal departments with skilled freelance lawyers. With years of practical experience in freelance lawyering, Erin is a recognized thought leader in the evolving legal landscape and a staunch advocate for flexible, sustainable legal careers.Through her work, Erin empowers lawyers and firms to embrace a more adaptable and modern approach to legal practice. She has taught at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, mentored new lawyers through the University of Ottawa's alumni program, and been nominated for multiple legal awards. A frequent speaker and writer, Erin is dedicated to shaping the future of legal work and advancing the freelance lawyer movement.

Edition details

• Publisher: Flex Legal Network inc.
• Publication date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1069467111
• ISBN 13: 9781069467119
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 250