Crime solicitors have lost their appeal against the government's plans to cut the number of duty solicitors' contracts by two thirds – a decision which the Law Society has said could lead to vulnerable people being denied access to justice.

London law firm Mishcon de Reya has launched a programme to offer free legal advice and mentoring to early-stage tech businesses.

Lawyers have been seeking specialist support with their mental health since the UK’s lockdown began in March, according to recent figures.

The College of Law has recently published research that shows that vacancies for training contracts are likely to outnumber new LPC graduates within the next few years.

How do you know which type of law firm is the right fit for you? Where you train will influence your career path, as the key practice areas, size and clients of each firm vary. 

In this LCN Says, we speak to Rona Ankrah from Mayer Brown International LLP about building commercial awareness. Read this article for insights on how you can demonstrate commercial awareness in interviews, how Mayer Brown helps trainees to develop their commercial awareness and how Rona approaches learning about clients’ businesses.

What role have litigation lawyers played in recent headline-making market movements involving big tech in the US and could similar claims arise in the UK?

Insurance (and reinsurance – the insurance of insurers) is an integral part of commercial activity throughout the world.

What is the B-corp movement and how do the social and environmental considerations of companies influence the work of lawyers?

Should Northern Ireland emulate the security of tenure stance of England and Wales?

How do lawyers play a role in supporting clients with natural capital? 

I've seen lots of big developments being built in my home town. What's the commercial context and how do real estate lawyers get involved?

The law centre helping victims of the Grenfell Tower fire has had its funding slashed so severely that it is relying on public donations, charitable grants and lawyers choosing to work for free, it has been revealed. 

Oxford Brookes School of Law and The College of Legal Practice have joined forces to offer the law school’s students discounted access to Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) preparation courses, as well as appropriate guidance and information on the new route to qualifying.

Public-spirited lawyers undertaking long, complex cases for free are the only people filling the “gaping holes in the fabric of legal aid”, a High Court judge has said.

Farrer & Co LLP has launched a free training guide for prospective lawyers to improve their commercial acumen – a skill that all law firm recruiters look for in candidates. 

International law firm CMS has launched its ‘next generation’ vacation scheme as part of its CMS Academy programme.