Law firm leaders often speculate about what the next generation wants, but rarely do they hear directly from those about to enter the profession. We invited participants from our Virtual Intern Programme (VIP) to share their perspectives on starting a career in law.
This interactive discussion, facilitated by CM Murray Partner Corinne Staves, provides valuable, first-hand insights into what matters most to future lawyers at this early stage of their journeys. It covers a wide range of issues, including:
- Transparency and culture: The firm’s attitude towards interns and applicants are crucial in signposting the firm’s culture and therefore attracting and retaining talent
- Work experience: Direct interaction with staff (via internships, open days or legal fairs) helps candidates to gauge a firm’s true culture and “vibe”
- Career progression: While partnership is seen as a significant achievement and a real ambition of tomorrow’s lawyers, and there is great excitement about a career in law, the meaning of partnership in a firm is often opaque
- Social mobility and accessibility: Financial and social barriers (e.g. cost of further education, unpaid internships) influence career choices and access to opportunities
- Technology: The interns are cautiously optimistic about AI and tech in law, seeing both opportunities and challenges, in particular relating to training and junior roles
This discussion is essential listening for law firm leaders and recruitment professionals, highlighting that the next generation of lawyers is looking for more than just prestige or financial reward; they want transparency, genuine culture, accessible opportunities and clear career pathways.
By listening directly to future talent and understanding their perspectives and objectives, law firms are better placed to attract, develop and retain the lawyers who will shape the profession’s future.
CM Murray LLP is ranked for Tier 1 for Partnership and Employment (Senior Executives) by Legal 500 UK 2025: ‘The very top of the field in advising individuals in partnership and employment disputes.’
