Law firms reveal approaches to SQE and generational divide is major challenge for junior lawyers, survey finds
updated on 24 May 2024
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New research suggests that generational divide is the biggest challenge junior lawyers will face in the workplace, while most law firms said they require non-law students to complete a law conversion course ahead of starting the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).
Legal news website Legal Cheek surveyed close to 40 law firms, more than a third of which (36%) believe the biggest challenge junior lawyers will face is managing differing workplace attitudes between themselves and their older colleagues.
The research found that generation Xers (those aged between 44 and 59) often prioritise long-term growth, stability and independence, while generation Zers (those aged between 12 and 27) tend to prioritise career development, new experiences and challenges, and regular guidance from their superiors.
In the wider industry, 56% of workers said they find generational collaboration challenging, according to a survey by The Adaptavist Group. The survey also identified the gap between digital and communication skills across different generations as a mental wellbeing concern. A significant portion of the workforce (37%) said they were anxious about face-to-face interaction, which could drive further generational divide.
Meanwhile, data from Legal Cheek’s research cited addressing ‘knowledge gaps’ (31%) and the ability to effectively manage mental health (11%) as further challenges aspiring lawyers can expect to face when entering the profession.
Find out more about managing work/life balance and mental health with insights from LawCareers.Net and Elizabeth Rimmer.
Law firms were also questioned on their approach to the SQE, as part of Legal Cheek’s research, with the majority of firms (89%) requiring non-law students to complete a law conversion course before undertaking the SQE assessments. Most law firms also highlighted the need for their future lawyers to complete additional training, such as an LLM/master’s programmes, practice area-focused modules and skills-focused courses.
Hear from future trainee Rachel Hii on how she found her SQE prep course with The University of Law and find everything you need to know about the SQE on our SQE hub.
