Law firms have begun to amend their graduate recruitment activities in response to the spread of coronavirus across the globe.
More than 30 law firms run spring vacation schemes in which students from across the UK and beyond gather to experience life in the profession; however, these are now under threat.
Shearman & Sterling was due to run a vacation scheme from 16-27 March, but has now decided to postpone it until a later date.
Linklaters has postponed its first Pathfinder scheme of the year – a two-day ‘insight event’ for first year students – until May. However, a spokesperson for Linklaters said that “as of 12 March, our spring vacation scheme is still going ahead; however, we are monitoring the situation very closely.” The firm’s spring vac scheme is currently set for 30 March to 9 April.
Many other firms are carrying on as normal for now. A spokesperson for Bristows, which has a two-day scheme on 25-26 March, said: “We are still planning on hosting the spring workshop and have asked candidates to confirm that they have not been to certain countries, or in contact with anyone who has been there. However, we will keep an eye on government recommendations over the next couple of weeks and will cancel if needed.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for TLT said: “We are monitoring the impact of the coronavirus on all aspects of our business in line with government advice. This includes our spring vacation scheme and we will keep those due to take part informed if we decide to postpone to a later date.”
Farrer & Co too has sent offers out to successful applicants for its scheme, planned for 30 March to 9 April, but is monitoring the situation.
