Law Soc launches new group for junior lawyers

The Law Society is set to launch a Junior Lawyers Division (JLD) next January, which will provide representation for students, trainees and solicitors with up to five years active practice.

The new division, which will be chaired by recently qualified solicitor Katherine Gibson, will bring together the National Trainee Solicitors Group (TSG) and the National Young Solicitors Group (YSG) under one umbrella.

The YSG ceased operating at the end of June this year, while the TSG will wind down by the end of November.

Gibson and a committee of seven members who are students, trainees, new solicitors and three representatives from the Law Societys Council are now in the midst of placing the building blocks for the JLD to be launched in January 2008.

The Law Society is urging students, trainees and lawyers to take full advantage of the new division by registering as members.

The Society said this will ensure that their views are heard on issues pre and post qualification. Membership also offers careers advice and planning services, the chance to network with lawyers and provide professional development training.