Understanding Gen Z
As Generation Z enters the workforce, they are driving change. Today, in 2025, Gen Z’s ages range from thirteen to twenty-eight years old, so we have already seen some of the shifts they bring to the workplace. However, there is more to come, because these teens and young adults have an outlook on their careers that most have not seen before. As the generation’s influence grows and evolves, it is becoming increasingly important for law firms, and all other work environments, to pay attention to their demands.
Before turning to what, specifically, Gen Z is searching for in a law firm, we must first break down their overall characteristics and outlook on life. With the growth of this generation, the world has seen unprecedented levels of mental health awareness and communication. Gen Z has proven to be much more conscious of social and mental issues than any other generation. As a result, they communicate more openly in order to better understand the emotions of themselves and the people around them.
In addition, Gen Z utilizes technology more than anyone else. For the most part, they grew up with social media as a normal facet of life, and this has most definitely made them unique. Because of this, they are able to use platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube in new, creative ways for both work and pleasure. Social media also reflects this generation’s emphasis on diversity, as it is a place where people have been able to connect and learn about many other cultures. However, these platforms are also a big contributor to the surge of fake news we have seen recently. With Gen Z growing up in this time of misinformation, they have a growing desire of authenticity, valuing transparency and honesty over much else.
What Gen Z Wants In A Law Firm
Generally, Gen Z expects the same things from their work life that they expect from the world. This generation applies authenticity, diversity, purpose, creativity, a work-life balance, and technology to their work and wishes for employers to do the same, desiring a law firm environment that values all of these things.
Because of this generation’s emphasis on transparency, they are also searching for authenticity and honesty in the workplace. They expect clear communication, not wanting anything hidden from them. They prefer to be upfront with clients and for others to be upfront with them, and they emphasize the importance of firms clearly stating their values and ethics.
Gen Z also has a strong focus on social justice and fairness. They typically hold great respect for different beliefs and viewpoints, and are genuinely interested in learning from others. They believe it is extremely important for law firms to reflect diversity within their staff, leadership, and the clients whom they represent.
Most members of Gen Z have no interest in working if they do not feel they are fulfilling some sort of purpose. They want work about which they are passionate, and are looking for law firms that can provide this for them. For a majority of the generation, this means a desire for companies that make a positive contribution to society, whether it be through civil rights, environmental issues, or pro bono work.
Today’s teens and young adults have a strong desire to do things differently. They are quick to highlight the faults of the older generations, and they want to challenge traditional norms. In the legal world, Gen Z is looking for law firms that are open to trying out new and innovative approaches to existing services. They want freedom to be creative.
As Gen Z has grown, graduated, and began working, the world has seen a shift in work culture. The generation is leading the current push for flexible hours and remote work options. Because they have learned more about mental health than previous generations, they understand how important it is to have a work-life balance. Law firms that are embracing these changes are the ones getting the attention of younger talent.
Gen Z’s comfort with technology can truly be a game changer for the legal world. Outside of their previously mentioned social media use, they have an evident strength with various digital tools and platforms. They expect law firms to be equally tech-savvy and want them to implement newer technologies such as remote consultations, apps for communication and case tracking, and AI-driven legal platforms.
Why It Matters Now
The next wave of lawyers is on the way—and that wave is all Gen Z. As this generation starts working and taking on leadership roles, they will lead the legal industry through a substantial shift. Clients will likely begin to demand more innovation, transparency, and diversity from firms, and we will see that Gen Z’s values align perfectly. This means law firms, if they want to get ahead, should prepare for change. The key to attracting and retaining the top talent amongst this new generation of lawyers will be adapting to their values. Firms will want to reevaluate their approaches and environments in order to meet Gen Z’s expectations, remain competitive, and thrive in this changing job market.
