HOLIDAY MODE: How to Keep Legal Operations Running Smoothly While Staff Are Away

Summer holidays are a well-earned break for all of us in the legal industry. As much as we all need them, they can also create operational pressure if your finance function isn’t prepared for staff absences. 

From partners heading off on annual leave to stretched support teams juggling extra responsibilities, even the most efficient firms can feel the impact. So how can you ensure your legal finance operations stay compliant, efficient and stress-free while key people are out of the office? 

Here are five practical ways to help your firm stay on track during the summer season.

1. Plan Holiday Cover in Advance

It might sound obvious, but early planning is crucial. In smaller firms where individuals wear many hats, even one absence can have knock-on effects. Ask yourself: 

• Who is responsible for authorising urgent transactions? 

• Is someone assigned to monitor the client account? 

• Does anyone else have access to payroll/practice management systems/online banking? 

Have clear internal documentation, identify backup contacts and make sure procedures are understood across the team. 

2. Automate Routine Tasks Where Possible

Take advantage of technology and systems that can handle recurring finance tasks without daily manual intervention. From scheduled payments to automatic report generation, a little preparation can save a lot of stress. 

Using an integrated outsourced provider like Cashroom can also reduce reliance on internal teams, with automated workflows and real-time updates via our portal. 

3. Stay on Top of Compliance

Client money regulations don’t take holidays. Make sure key deadlines and approval processes are covered while staff are away. Whether it’s reconciling ledgers or submitting VAT returns, compliance must remain a priority during the summer months. 

Having access to an experienced legal finance team can make all the difference. At Cashroom, we ensure no matter who is away, your firm stays fully compliant and in control. 

4. Review Delegated Authority

Ensure temporary delegates have the appropriate permissions and understand the firm’s processes. The last thing you want is delayed transactions resulting in unhappy clients or compliance breaches because someone doesn’t know the process. 

A short briefing before the holiday period starts can prevent confusion and reduce unnecessary risk. 

5. Outsource with Confidence

This is where an outsourced finance partner really proves its value. With a provider like Cashroom managing your legal cashiering, payroll, management accounts, and more, you don’t have to worry about staff absences or cover during holidays. 

Our experienced team operates as an extension of your firm, ensuring continuity and peace of mind—while your staff enjoy a well-earned break. 

We also support many in-house finance teams, offering a flexible service that can scale up or down to match demand during busy periods or when cover is needed. 

Ready for a Stress-Free Summer? 

Holiday cover doesn’t need to mean compromise. If you want to learn how outsourcing can keep your finance function running smoothly through the entire year and beyond, get in touch with our team today.