The work you love.
Returners Programme for Lawyers
The Obelisk Returners Programme is designed for qualified lawyers returning to the legal profession after a career break. Over nine months, participants gain mentorship, coaching, networking and training opportunities and hands-on experience to rebuild confidence, update legal knowledge and reconnect with the professional world.
Obelisk is proud to lead this important initiative, and we are deeply grateful to the legal community for its ongoing support.
Who are Returners?
Legal returners are experienced professionals re-entering the legal field after a career break, often taken for family, caregiving, or personal reasons.
These Returners are highly skilled lawyers, trained by top-tier law firms, who bring exceptional experience and renewed motivation to their careers.
Returner programs are instrumental in helping these professionals bridge perceived gaps, regain confidence, and update their knowledge, transforming career breaks into a positive benefit for businesses seeking legal support.
Over 15 years of championing Returners
%
Of our Returners are female
%
Of our workforce are Returners, exceeding the 2% industry average
Programme At A Glance
Want to sign up?
1.
Mentoring
Guidance from Experienced Lawyers
Each participant is paired with a senior lawyer who provides personalised support, industry insights and encouragement throughout the nine-month journey.
You’ll gain:
- Confidence and renewed training
- Practical advice from experienced professionals.
- A trusted sounding board for your return to practice.
How it works:
- Matching: Based on professional goals, practice areas, and interests.
- Goal Setting: Early sessions to define clear, achievable objectives.
- Monthly Check-ins: Regular mentor–mentee conversations to review progress.
- Ongoing Support: Guidance on legal updates, market changes, and professional development.
2.
Monthly Webinars by Expert Speakers
Learning from Leaders
Monthly webinars feature senior lawyers, in-house counsel, and industry experts discussing key legal and professional topics.
You’ll gain:
- Updated knowledge of current legal and market trends.
- Renewed confidence in your legal expertise.
- Connection with a community of peers and mentors.
Highlights:
- 1–1.5 hour sessions with live Q&A.
- Topics tailored to returning lawyers’ needs.
3.
Group & 1:1 Coaching (and CV clinics)
Building Confidence and Career Clarity
Coaching provides structured support to help you plan your next career step with purpose and confidence.
You’ll gain:
- A strong, up-to-date CV and LinkedIn profile.
- A clear, confident personal narrative.
- A three-year career plan and roadmap to success.
Main Features:
-
Group Coaching: Workshop-style sessions led by an executive coach.
-
1:1 Coaching: Tailored sessions with an executive coach focusing on confidence, mindset, and strategy.
-
CV & LinkedIn Clinics: Guidance to refresh your professional profile.
-
Interview Preparation: Practical mock interviews and feedback.
Thank you to Obelisk and the Returners Programme. I wouldn’t have had this mentoring opportunity without you. The course itself-the speakers, the content, and the message you share-it’s so empowering. I have felt inspired and motivated in a way I haven’t for a long while. I am so glad I joined this programme and would recommend it to anyone. Everyone!
— 2025 Returner
4.
Work Placement
Reconnecting with Legal Pracitce
Work placements offer the chance to apply refreshed skills in a live environment, rebuild professional networks, and experience today’s legal workplace firsthand. All placements are subject to availability.
You’ll gain:
- Practical experience and confidence in current legal practice.
- Valuable professional connections.
- Insight into potential long-term career opportunities.
Main Features:
-
Group Coaching: Workshop-style sessions led by an executive coach.
-
1:1 Coaching: Tailored sessions with an executive coach focusing on confidence, mindset, and strategy.
-
CV & LinkedIn Clinics: Guidance to refresh your professional profile.
-
Interview Preparation: Practical mock interviews and feedback.
5.
A Supportive Community
A Community That Supports You
You’ll join a community of peers who understand the return-to-work journey, supported by networking and peer-led sessions.
You’ll gain:
- A lasting professional network.
- Ongoing encouragement and accountability.
- Shared learning and support from fellow returners
Main Features:
- A lasting professional network.
- Ongoing encouragement and accountability.
- Shared learning and support from fellow returners
“The legal profession’s growing appetite for hiring career returners is opening up a wealth of opportunities for a talented group of lawyers”
– Dana Denis-Smith, OBE
CEO, Obelisk Support
Want to partner with us?
Informed by industry leading expertise
Obelisk Support has been working with returners to the legal industry for over a decade, creating flexible working options that help professionals come back to legal after a break – or stay in their career alongside other responsibilities.
Our Legal Returners Programme distils everything we’ve learnt about helping people come back to the law into monthly sessions. Easy to access (everything’s online), packed with expertise, tips and practical advice. Thinking about returning to the law after a career break – for whatever reason? Our aim is to help you understand your options, build your confidence and take the first step back into work.