New “Junior Solicitors Network” launched by Law Society

The Law Society of England and Wales has launched a new Junior Solicitors Network (JSN) in an effort to “engage and support junior solicitors, talk about the pressing issues they face, and provide easy access to information and resources in order to support their careers”.

This includes the launch of a Juniors Web Hub which will provide access to relevant information and upcoming events for members, as well as career support, wellbeing, and personal development resources.

“I am delighted to launch our Junior Solicitors Network, which will allow junior solicitors the time and space to tell us about the issues facing them and what more the Law Society can do to support them as they forge their career in the profession,” said Law Society Vice President Nick Emmerson, continuing:

“The Law Society’s varied programme of activities and resources throughout the year will address the pressing issues for junior solicitors and help them develop in their legal careers.

To help the Law Society formulate plans and deliver effectively against the priorities and issues of junior solicitors, we have established the JSN Advisory Committee.”

Emmerson went on to say that the committee will also be able to help the Law Society as it “refines content for a flagship conference on the Future of Work, suggests speakers for webinars looking at workplace culture, and helps shape in-person topical seminars and networking held in London, Wales and the regions”. He added:

“More widely, the committee will work with the Law Society as it influences on legal aid, wellbeing, accessibility of the Solicitors Qualifying Exam and our flagship initiative on 21^st century justice.”

The current Vice-Chair of the Junior Lawyers Division, Darja Cernobrivec, will become the JSN Advisory Committee’s first Chair. She will hold this role until October 2023. JSN Chair Darja Cernobrivec said:

“I am delighted to launch our new Junior Solicitors Network today.

Speaking to junior solicitors across the country, one major need emerged above all others, the need for increased engagement and support for junior and aspiring solicitors.

We will play our part to ensure that junior solicitors don’t feel alone, but rather a part of one inclusive profession with common vision and determination to excel in their careers and promote the rule of law.”

The National Junior Lawyers Division

The Law Society will continue to support and collaborate with the National JLD Committee – which will be fully independent from the Law Society, with its own independent voice and programme of work.

The National JLD Committee is comprised of representatives from all of the local JLDs across England and Wales.

The National JLD represents the views of junior lawyers up to five years post-qualified experience (PQE) and campaigns on their behalf.

The JSN Advisory Committee will be chaired by Darja Cernobrivec. If you are a junior lawyer interested in getting involved with the JSN Advisory Committee, contact Darja at: JuniorLawyers@LawSociety.org.uk