SYLA publishes traineeship survey results
Most trainee solicitors in Scotland have a good experience, but issues persist for some, according to a survey carried out by the Scottish Young Lawyers' Association, the results of which have been published today.
Conducted over a month last open and open to current trainees and those who qualified between 2020 and 2022, the survey attracted 117 responses, the majority from trainees at firms with more than 31 partners.
Overall, 83% regarded the quality of their training as excellent or good, while 15% rated it as poor or very poor. Nearly two thirds (64%) worked hybrid – partly in the office and partly not; many will have trained during the years of Covid-19 restrictions. Views were mixed on the hybrid experience, with some liking the flexibility, cost saving and independence that resulted, while others found it hard to connect and make relationships, felt the lack of events and of people to provide feedback, and the inability to meet clients in person.
Three quarters (74%) had a mentor, who usually met with them monthly or more frequently, but only 46% found their mentor to be very helpful while 53% replied somewhat or not helpful. Most trainees found it harder to raise with their mentor matters concerning wellbeing and personal issues affecting work, but 89% did feel that their firm was supportive.
However, while 92% felt very or somewhat comfortable in approaching people at their firm, 30% answered that their firm did not deal with concerns well.
An 82% majority found the Law Society of Scotland good or excellent to deal with, while 16% had negative views. Suggestions included closer collaboration between SYLA and the Society, including on practical events.
Summarising, SYLA commented: "The report raises a number of positive experiences and some issues of concern. The SYLA will work to address the concerns raised with the relevant bodies with a view to improving the traineeship experience in Scotland."