Spanish Law Firms Embrace Billing Flexibility, Yet Fall Behind on Diversity New Legal Market Report Reveals

AUGUSTA, Ga. (May 29, 2025) — Best Lawyers^® inaugural edition of Best Law Firms^™ – Spain Legal Market Report released today, highlighting 63% of firms now offer alternative fee arrangements, such as flat or capped fees, a significant shift for Spanish law firms in an industry traditionally dominated by billable hour. Clients largely view this shift as beneficial for improving cost predictability and transparency. 

The findings, based on responses from 237 law firms alongside the 2026 Best Law Firms – Spain rankings, provide insight into how law firms evaluate their performance and strategy to meet new market demands. The report reveals key industry trends, including billing, client engagement, corporate sustainability and diversity in firm leadership. 

The report found that 78% of firms reported actively pursuing new clients, with many focusing their growth strategies within Spain, as 34% of firms indicated they conduct 100% of their work domestically.

“There is a strong sense of drive within the Spanish legal community,” said Elizabeth Petit, Vice President of Research and Development at Best Lawyers. “Our data reveals a dynamic market balancing both tradition and innovation. This report highlights areas where firms are thriving and where there is meaningful opportunity for continued growth.”

Despite advancements in law firm billing structures, the report reveals clear areas for improvement as firms grapple with diversity gaps. Although women represent more than 66% of associates, just 37% of equity partners are female. Only 1% of firms confirmed having a full-time diversity and inclusion officer.

A gap is also evident in limited Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) adoption, with 32% of firms reporting having an ESG strategy, yet fewer than 18% have dedicated corporate sustainability-related positions, committees or programs.

Pro bono work and community engagement vary widely. Just over 34% of firms have formal pro bono programs, while a third report having none, and 21% chose not to disclose their pro bono status. 

“Spain’s legal sector is rapidly pacing other countries, and firms need trusted benchmarks to navigate growth,” said Phillip Greer, CEO of Best Lawyers. “With the launch of this inaugural report, we’re offering firms actionable insights they can use to make informed strategic decisions and align with client expectations.” 

Deepening its impact in the Spanish legal market, Best Lawyers today debuts the 2026 Best Law Firms – Spain rankings, spotlighting the top 1% of firms in the country.  The distinctions are based on more than 4,600 lawyers surveyed, 1,600 client references and over 100 interviews with practice group leaders. 

Read the full Best Law Firms – Spain Legal Market Report and search the 2026 Best Law Firms – Spain rankings to find firms delivering the standard of service clients trust. See which firms are setting the benchmark for the profession, with results by firm name, region and/or practice area.