The Law Society releases guidance to support Black or minority ethnic aspiring lawyers
updated on 08 October 2024
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To coincide with this year’s Black History Month, the Law Society has published new guidance to support Black and minority ethnic students entering the profession.
The guidance provides advice on challenging assumptions and overcoming barriers, securing a training opportunity and the various funding opportunities. The advice also outlines that, as law firms search for unique insights and experiences, minority ethnic solicitors can provide cultural and regional understandings, as well as an additional language or anything else unique to their background. As such, the Law Society recommends that candidates promote their individuality as a valuable asset, both at interview stage and throughout a career in law.
The information provides a range of funding opportunities available to Black or minority ethnic students, including the Law Society’s Diversity Access Scheme, which has so far supported 300 talented trainees to pursue their career ambitions since 2004. The guidance also highlights a list of minority ethnic support groups, such as the Black Solicitors Network and 10,000 Black Interns, as well as useful contacts, such as GROW Mentoring and LawCare.
On top of this, it emphasises the value of securing a training opportunity and advises aspiring lawyers to conduct detailed research, build confidence, seek opportunities and grow a network.
Law Society President Nick Emmerson said: “The journey to a legal career can be a daunting experience for all aspiring solicitors. For a minority ethnic student, the extremely competitive environment may feel even more overwhelming, especially with the added challenges of having to overcome barriers often based on assumptions and lack of knowledge.”
Check out this Oracle to find out more about five diversity access schemes in law for Black aspiring lawyers.
Emmerson also added: “As we celebrate Black History Month, I urge aspiring solicitors to make use of our guidance in order to enter the legal profession and widen the talent pool to help shape a dynamic and diverse workforce. Those looking to enter the legal profession should not feel shy about promoting their abilities and insight as valuable assets, both at interview stage and through their career progression.”
