The LawCareers.Net Handbook 2022

The Law Society and the Junior Lawyers Division

trainee in their firms, as well as giving junior lawyers the chance to connect and build their professional networks. One representative from each local group, the national committee representative, is invited to attend a meeting with all other national representatives and the JLD executive committee three times a year. This is to discuss issues affecting junior lawyers in the regions and also to input into campaigns the JLD is leading. Campaigning on key issues The JLD ensures that its members’ views are heard and campaigns to bring about real change to further their interests. Over the years, JLD campaigns and lobbying activities have covered issues such as the trainee minimum salary, work experience, cuts to legal aid, lobbying the Solicitors Regulation Authority to amend its proposals for a centralised assessment and greater protections for junior lawyers generally. Events The JLD offers its members opportunities to attend national events and engage with the support services. The main events include the following: • Forums – one-day careers events, held around the country, focusing on issues that affect the membership, from how to get a training contract to practical skills and advice for junior lawyers in the work environment. • Conference – an annual event, featuring interesting speakers and lively debate with a focus on taking control of your career. • International weekend – once a year the JLD, the Young Barristers’ Committee, the European Young Bar Association and the London Young Lawyers Group organise a two-day training conference that is attended by lawyers from around the world. • Essay competition – a 2,000-word essay competition that gives the JLD’s LPC

student/graduate, solicitor apprentice and trainee members the chance to compete for prize money, as well as honing their drafting skills on a subject of professional relevance. • International networking – opportunities to meet and network with junior lawyers from other legal jurisdictions through membership of international organisations. Advice and information The JLD aims to be a source of information for all junior lawyers and the voice of the issues facing junior lawyers. Its website includes information about legal career paths, national and regional events, ongoing policy projects, webinars, initiatives involving junior lawyers and articles of interest to the junior profession. Its social media pages – on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram – provide updates on JLD activity and upcoming events. The JLD also publishes a regular podcast series. Getting involved The JLD is always looking for active participation; its executive committee has positions available each year, including a specific LPC student seat. This information is provided by the Law Society. Learn more about the Law Society at www.lawsociety.org.uk . Learn more about the JLD and sign up for the JLD e-newsletter at www.lawsociety.org.uk/ juniorlawyers , or contact them via email at juniorlawyers@lawsociety.org.uk.

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THE LAWCAREERS.NET HANDBOOK

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