Legal Life in the Offshore Caribbean (A Legal Recruitment Guide)

If you are a lawyer considering an upgrade in your lifestyle while wishing to maintain a positive career trajectory, a move to a Caribbean offshore jurisdiction such as Bermuda, BVI and Cayman could well be the answer you are looking for.

Agnew O’Brien is a legal recruitment specialist that has relocated lawyers globally for over 20 years and is well placed to assist you in your search. We understand what is required to relocate to the Caribbean and what it will be like when you get there. Below are some of the reasons why moving offshore could be the right move for you:

Remuneration for Offshore Lawyers

Due to the low tax rates prevalent in these jurisdictions (between 0-8% depending on which island), it is possible to achieve a salary package akin to many of the leading Magic/Silver Circle/US firms in London, offering many lawyers working offshore the opportunity to achieve financial freedom and security, while enjoying what is a very attractive lifestyle.

With Associates being able to secure packages of USD $150-220k upwards + bonus & benefits and with Counsel and Partners candidates being offered packages on par with many top tier international law firms, it is clear to see why working offshore and benefitting from a minimal tax take is an attractive and lucrative option.

Agnew O’Brien has placed countless lawyers across the Caribbean with top flight international and domestic offshore firms, many of whom work closely with us to secure their legal talent. We are able to advise candidates accurately on compensation expectations and address any questions you may have in this regard.

Career Path for Offshore Lawyers

Gone are the days when moving offshore was considered a nail in the coffin for a successful legal career. In fact the reverse is arguably true, with the leading offshore law firms offering considerably more opportunity to reach Partner than the majority of the top tier onshore law firms. For solicitors and barristers looking for interesting, varied, high quality work acting for a host of international clients, offshore locations such as Bermuda, BVI and Cayman offer a genuine alternative. Furthermore, it is often the case that your working hours are less intensive & more predictable than with an equivalent onshore law firms, offering greater opportunity to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

While there are certain admission requirements per jurisdiction there are no exams required to secure admission to the local bar, so qualifying candidates are able to hit the ground running.

Agnew O’Brien has positioned itself as one of the leaders in the offshore legal recruitment sector and can assist candidates from Associate to Partner locate opportunities with genuine career progression. We understand what our clients look for and can advise accurately on whether such a move is open to you now or in the future.

Quality of Life for Offshore Lawyers

There are a host of reasons why working offshore will improve your quality of life, from short commutes to work, enhanced flexible working policies employed by firms (more so since Covid), a superb tropical climate with practically no air pollution, access to the ocean and world class beaches – plus the associated water sports / pursuits – and the general relaxed nature of island life that is palpable in Bermuda, BVI and Cayman

In addition there is a very active ex-pat community on all islands, supported by high quality bars, restaurants and sports & social clubs while the social infrastructure such as schools and medical facilities is predominantly of a very high standard.

Again, Agnew O’Brien is a legal recruitment consultancy that can offer practical advice on what the realities of relocating offshore entail. The lawyers we assist are given all the information they need to make an informed decision on whether living & working in the Caribbean could be the right move for them.

What Next? – Speak to an Expert in Offshore Legal Recruitment

Agnew O’Brien is a specialist recruitment agency connecting talented legal professionals with global law firms. You can read more about our expertise and services on our candidate page. We are keen to support your career objectives and look forward to hearing from you should you wish to consider options offshore or elsewhere.

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