Workplace Culture: Respecting Junior Lawyers
The regulatory landscape has undergone a significant shift in recent years, with a greater emphasis on culture and its impact on professional conduct. This is particularly relevant for junior lawyers.
The risks associated with culture are evident, with one non-fee-earner stating in the Solicitors Regulation Authority's Workplace Thematic Review:
A lot of the time it doesn’t feel worth reporting issues because firms may choose the fact that somebody is a valuable fee-earner over their culture… you feel like you shouldn’t raise issues so as not to cause friction or face potential mistreatment further down the line.
This highlights the need for a respectful and supportive workplace culture, where junior lawyers feel valued and empowered to report issues without fear of reprisal.
Author's summary: Regulatory focus shifts to culture.