But we’re sure SJ Berwin didn’t need to go to such lengths when it decided to end its flexible working scheme. The extended scheme which included flexible hours for large numbers of associates and sabbaticals for some lucky corporates closes at the end of April. That’s a few more weeks of freedom for the lucky ones.

It has been running since last July and proved very popular – apparently up to 80% took the opportunity to grab some extra me-time, who wouldn’t.

But like Eversheds, SJ Berwin has decided to shake off the junior hibernation as the economic winter turns to spring. Also similar to Eversheds, SJ Berwin is introducing broader junior assessment criteria to suit the new landscape. According to the Lawyer: “The ’professional investment time plan’ will formalise the way associates are assessed by partners, allowing for the recognition of business development work that is not directly transactional.” Got it. We think it means appraisals will consider something other than just billable hours.