Think Global, Act Local (JLD)
updated on 06 January 2009
The JLD plans to provide its members with support, advice, information and networking opportunities, as well as representing their views. Members will benefit from the increased resources and visibility of the Law Society, which will allow them access to many more opportunities.
As well as the national JLD, there are a growing number of local groups across England and Wales. These local groups represent JLD members in their local areas, on local issues and organise events for members in their region. Each local JLD group is represented on the JLD National Committee and is regularly updated with policy developments and national campaigns.
JLD local groups can provide a number of useful services. Although many may seem primarily to be party organisers and providers of free drinks, it will often go much further than that. Many local JLDs provide regular training or information events, from interviewing and networking skills through to career guidance and tips on becoming a partner. These events are not only an opportunity to develop new skills, but also to see some familiar faces and build professional as well as social relationships. Other events such as an annual ball or dinner, cross-profession networking events and combined events with local law societies all go towards making you a rounded professional and not just a nine-to-five office monkey. Being a solicitor can simply be a job, but for many it is a vocation, a career and a lifestyle.
Local groups also provide a service to those coming to a new town or city for work. This is apparent not only when training, but also on qualification and beyond. Although you might not find an immediate circle of friends, a JLD event can put you in contact with at least someone like you, perhaps even in the same position. And there is always the possibility of a romance for those who are looking for it (JLD speed dating is not uncommon - if you really want to be in a relationship with another lawyer that is!).
For anyone who has an interest in getting involved with a local JLD on a level that is more than just attending events every month or so, joining a local committee can provide a fantastic opportunity to develop additional skills you would otherwise not have in the day job, have a good time, meet new people and enjoy some wonderful experiences. Committees sometimes have a bad reputation. Like Parliament, meetings can often drag on for hours with nothing being achieved. Committees are also susceptible to egomaniacs or old boys' networks. But don't let that put you off! JLD committees like any other organisation need PR officers, party planners and sponsorship go-getters, as well as treasurers and secretaries. If your creative juices are somewhat restricted at work, why not put your energies into designing flyers for events or even a website for the group. If you have ideas, I am sure you will be welcomed. Of course, you might have to get elected first!
I am reminded by colleagues locally and nationally, and much more senior than me, that even now some of their best friends were at one time fellow committee members for one of the JLD's ancestor groups. The reason for this is probably something to do with the dynamic relationship that anyone needs to be successful on a committee and the flexibility and understanding that goes with it. Of course, there is always the social side of things to keep it interesting!
And then there are the parties. Even during times of credit crunch, young lawyers are an attractive proposition to many kinds of industry and there is never a lack of interest from recruitment agents willing to pay to give you some drinks in exchange for a business card, an email address or a phone number.
For further information, to register with the Junior Lawyer Division and check out your local JLD group, go to www.lawsociety.org.uk/juniorlawyers.
Kevin Poulter is a solicitor working in the employment department at Wake Smith & Tofields and a board member on the national JLD Executive Committee.
