Tells us your views on in-house traineeships

In-house solicitors are invited to take part in focus groups to share their views on in-house traineeships.

The events, which will take place in September and October, follow a survey earlier this year which explored perceived barriers to taking on trainees.The survey, which attracted more than 320 responses, also looked at the benefits of having a traineeship programme and what motivates organisations to take on trainees.

The discussion groups are being held to collect further, qualitative evidence on the in-house traineeship market.  A full report on the survey and the focus groups will be published later this year.

Initial survey findings have indicated that the most significant perceived barriers to taking on a trainee include the inability for in-house teams to offer a traditional three or four seat rotation for trainees and a lack of personnel and / or financial resource to support a trainee. Respondents rated the opportunity to ‘grow your own’ trainee by shaping the experience they need to make a good in-house solicitor as the most important factor influencing the decision to take on a trainee. Secondment programmes or having support from paralegal colleagues did not appear to impact significantly on the decision to take on a trainee.

Beth Anderson, Head of Engagement for In-house Lawyers, said: “The survey has highlighted some interesting findings which we want to explore further through the focus group discussions.

“We are keen to find out more from established trainee providers about their experiences of running traineeship programmes, including some of the challenges they have encountered and collation of positive testimonials. We also want to examine some of the negative themes emanating from the survey and how the Society can help to break down any barriers to taking on a trainee.  We’re particularly keen to hear from solicitors at organisations with no or limited traineeship experience, including anyone who may be considering taking on a trainee in the future.”

Focus group dates:

• Thursday 19 September, 12.30 – 2pm in Edinburgh
• Thursday 3 October, 12.30 – 2pm in Glasgow
• Tuesday 8 October, 12.30 – 2pm in Edinburgh

If you’re interested in taking part in one of the focus groups, contact the Society’s Head of Engagement for In-house Lawyers, Beth Anderson. If dates and locations are not suitable, but you’d still like to contribute to the discussion, get in touch with Beth.