Top Tips for Scaling a Volume Litigation Team

Navigating the high-volume demands of litigation requires more than just a robust legal strategy – it demands a carefully structured resourcing model that balances efficiency, quality, and scalability.

As specialists in flexible legal support, we’ve seen how the right resourcing approach can make or break a firm’s success. Here are some actionable tips for volume claims law firms to optimise their workforce.

Volume claims firms thrive when they structure teams strategically. A triangular resourcing model ensures efficiency while maintaining quality:

• Junior staff: Paralegals and legal assistants handle routine tasks like document reviews and claimant communication.
• Mid-level roles: Supervising paralegals or junior solicitors provide oversight and help resolve more complex issues.
• Senior lawyers: Experienced solicitors and partners focus on high-level strategy, risk management, and client relations.

This model distributes work effectively, ensuring experienced lawyers can focus on strategic priorities while junior staff handle volume-heavy tasks.

Training new staff effectively is critical, especially for junior hires unfamiliar with the demands of high-volume claims.

• Soft Skills Training: Teach essential skills like communication, teamwork, and time management to build confidence and competence.
• Legal Knowledge: Provide targeted training on case types, compliance requirements, and firm processes to get new hires up to speed quickly.
• Hands-On Experience: Shadowing opportunities and supervised casework allow staff to apply their learning in real-world scenarios.

A well-structured onboarding process can significantly reduce errors and improve staff retention.

The legal landscape is always evolving, and so should your team’s skills. Firms should embed ongoing training and development into their resourcing models.

• Workshops and Webinars: Keep teams updated on industry trends and new regulations.
• Technical Training: Invest in training for legal tech tools to ensure your team can work efficiently.
• Career Development Pathways: Provide clear progression routes, such as support for the Solicitor Qualification Exam (SQE) or CILEX qualifications.

Staff who feel supported in their professional growth are more likely to stay with your firm and perform at their best.

High-volume claims are unpredictable. Firms need a resourcing model that can scale with demand.

• Paralegal Support: Use a flexible pool of paralegals to handle fluctuating caseloads, ensuring cost-efficiency without overburdening permanent staff.
• Project-Based Hiring: For peak periods, consider hiring temporary specialists or contracting additional support.
• Remote Teams: Remote working arrangements can increase your access to skilled professionals and provide flexibility for your workforce.

A flexible resourcing model ensures you can respond to demand spikes without compromising on quality.

With high caseloads, clear oversight is crucial to avoid errors and maintain compliance.

• Team Ratios: Aim for manageable team sizes, such as 8–12 junior staff per supervisor, to ensure effective oversight.
• Regular Check-Ins: Hold one-on-one meetings to address challenges and provide guidance.
• Feedback Culture: Encourage open communication and continuous improvement through regular performance reviews and feedback sessions.

Strong supervision not only improves the quality of work but also fosters a supportive team environment.

Technology is a powerful enabler for high-volume claims firms.

• Workflow Automation: Automate repetitive tasks like document sorting and claimant onboarding to free up staff for higher-value work.
• Data Management Tools: Centralised systems ensure easy access to case information and reduce duplication.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like shared calendars and task management software keep teams aligned and efficient.

By leveraging technology, firms can maximise the output of their existing workforce and minimise operational bottlenecks.

Volume claims law can be high-pressure, so creating a supportive workplace is essential.

• Work-Life Balance: Promote manageable workloads and flexible hours to prevent burnout.
• Recognition: Celebrate team achievements and individual contributions to boost morale.
• Open Communication: Create an environment where staff feel valued and heard.

A positive culture is key to retaining talent and maintaining productivity in the long term.

Volume claims law firms rely on their people to deliver results at scale. By adopting strategic resourcing models, prioritising training, and fostering a supportive culture, firms can build resilient teams that are prepared for the challenges of high-volume claims.

Looking for adaptable legal support? Flex Legal can help you create the scalable, skilled workforce you need to succeed. Let’s talk!