In this episode of Becoming a Lawyer, we’re joined by Oli Ascott—solicitor apprentice at Dentons and one of the rising voices in the movement reshaping how young people enter the legal profession. Oli shares his journey into law through the apprenticeship route, offering aspiring lawyers and legal educators an inside look at how non-traditional pathways are transforming the profession.🚀 Whether you’re weighing up university vs. an apprenticeship, mentoring junior lawyers, or curious about the next generation of legal talent, this episode is full of practical insights on career choices, social mobility, and the strengths Gen-Z lawyers bring to the table.🔎 In this episode, we cover:✅ Why Oli chose the solicitor apprenticeship route and what it’s really like✅ The evolution of apprenticeships—from rare pilots to mainstream pathways✅ What it’s like being a young fee-earner in a major law firm✅ Social mobility, diversity, and breaking down barriers to entry in law✅ Advice for aspiring lawyers considering alternative routes into the profession🎧 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to Season 2 Episode 501:46 – Introduction02:25 – Starting from Scratch: Why the Apprenticeship Route?07:12 – Why Dentons?09:25 – Life as an Apprentice17:18 – Industry views on Apprenticeships20:23 – Apprenticeships and University32:22 - Social Mobility & Inclusion42:35 - Quick Fire Round55:00 – Looking Ahead & Quick Fire Round💡 Key Takeaways for Junior Lawyers:🔹 The apprenticeship route is a valid, respected alternative to university🔹 Gen-Z lawyers bring fresh perspectives and adaptability to the profession🔹 Social mobility and inclusion are reshaping the future of law—be part of it🎙️ Subscribe to Becoming a Lawyer for more insights from pioneers shaping the legal profession💬 What do you think about apprenticeships as a route into law? Share your thoughts in the comments!👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes!
In this episode of Becoming a Lawyer, we’re joined by Ayaz Saboor—former solicitor, coach, and founder of The Commercial Law Pathway. From working part-time jobs at McDonald’s and supermarkets to qualifying at DWF, Ayaz’s journey is anything but conventional. He opens up about resilience, redefining success beyond titles, and building a platform to support aspiring lawyers through mentorship and resources he wished he had.🚀 Whether you’re facing training contract rejections, questioning your place in traditional practice, or seeking inspiration for a career built on purpose and impact—this episode is packed with insights on navigating setbacks, finding alignment, and supporting the next generation of legal talent.🔎 In this episode, we cover:✅ Ayaz’s early jobs and how they shaped his mindset in law✅ The training contract journey and lessons from rejection✅ Why he left practice to pursue mentorship and coaching✅ Building The Commercial Law Pathway and sharing free resources✅ Real talk advice for aspiring lawyers on applications, mindset & resilience✅ Redefining career success around values, purpose, and impact🎧 Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome to Season 2 Episode 601:35 – Introduction01:55 – Early Career: From Part-Time Jobs to Qualification06:15 – Dealing with Rejections11:41 – Implementing Positive Change22:19 - Life as a Trainee25:22 - Why Ayaz Left Practice?37:37 – Bonus Questions44:14 – Quick Fire Round💡 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Lawyers:🔹 Your path into law doesn’t have to be linear to be successful🔹 Rejections are part of the process—resilience is key🔹 Mentorship, mindset, and community can transform your journey🔹 Redefining success means building a career aligned with your values🎙️ Subscribe to Becoming a Lawyer for more conversations with pioneers reshaping the legal profession.💬 What does success in law mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments!👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes!
In this episode of Becoming a Lawyer, we’re joined by Philip Young—former solicitor, co-founder of boutique litigation firm CYK, and now co-founder of legal tech startup Garfield AI. Philip shares his bold career journey from Big Law to entrepreneurship and legal innovation, offering junior lawyers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to shape the future of legal practice.🚀 Whether you're just starting your legal career or curious about legal tech, this episode is packed with practical insights on leadership, risk-taking, innovation, and the evolving role of AI in the law.🔎 In this episode, we cover:✅ Life inside Big Law and what Philip learned at Baker McKenzie✅ Why he co-founded CYK—and how to lead outside the traditional path✅ What inspired his move into AI and how Garfield is reimagining legal services✅ Legal tech, small claims, SRA compliance, and what’s next for the industry✅ Advice for junior lawyers who want to stay relevant in an AI-powered future🎧 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to Season 2 Episode 401:32 – Introduction03:14: Early Career: Why Law?14:46 – Big Law Lessons from Baker McKenzie24:27 – Starting CYK: Building a Boutique Firm36:05 – Garfield AI: Entering the Legal Tech World54:10 – Future of the Legal Industry01:01:06 – Quick Fire Round💡 Key Takeaways for Junior Lawyers:🔹 Legal careers aren’t linear—bold moves can lead to a big impact🔹 AI isn’t a threat; it’s a tool—learn how to work with it, not against it🔹 Understanding innovation is becoming as important as understanding the law📌 Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about Garfield AI: https://www.garfield.law/ 🎙️ Subscribe to Becoming a Lawyer for more insights from legal pioneers💬 What part of Philip’s journey inspired you the most? Let us know in the comments!👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes!
In this episode of The Legal Loop, we’re joined by Patrick McCann—legal leader, mentor, and founder of City Century, an initiative dedicated to supporting junior lawyers with values-driven guidance and future-focused tools. Patrick brings a wealth of experience from across the legal sector, offering deep insight into how young lawyers can build resilient, ethical, and innovative careers in a changing profession
.🔎 In this episode, we cover:
✅ Patrick’s legal journey—from early career challenges to shaping legal culture
✅ Why values, people, and ethics are foundational to long-term success in law
✅ How City Century is helping the next generation of lawyers thrive
✅ Legal innovation beyond just tech—mindset shifts, mentorship, and sustainable growth
✅ Equality, diversity, and mental health in legal workplaces
✅ Rapid-fire questions, including: What’s one habit that’s changed Patrick’s work life? And what legal trend is he most excited about?
🎧 Timestamps:
0:00–Welcome to Season 2 Episode 3
02:37 – Introduction: Meet Patrick McCann
05:33 – Legal Journey & Lessons Learned
12:11 – People, Value & Ethics in the Legal Profession
24:36 – City Century & Legal Innovation:
31:20 - EDI, Mental Health & Career Sustainability
38:57 - Navigating the Legal Industry in 2025 and beyond 44:26 - Rapid Fire Questions
💡 Key Takeaways for Junior Lawyers:
🔹 Values aren’t optional—they’re essential to sustainable legal success
🔹 Innovation in law is about mindset, not just tech
🔹 Inclusivity and wellbeing are the future of legal culture
🔥 Don’t miss this thoughtful and forward-looking conversation with Patrick McCann—perfect for junior lawyers, legal educators, and anyone shaping the next chapter of the profession.
📌 Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about City Century: [https://citycentury.co.uk/]
🎙️ Subscribe to Become a Lawyer for more insights from legal change makers!💬 What values guide your legal journey? Drop a comment below! 👇👉
Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore the latest legal headlines. Hogan Lovells nears a $3 billion revenue milestone, while Clifford Chance reports an 80% trainee retention rate, signaling strong competition in the legal market. Meanwhile, the legal super-regulator's chair steps down unexpectedly, raising questions about future leadership.
We also cover the Ministry of Justice’s call for public feedback on private prosecution reforms and a High Court ruling reinstating a negligence claim against a family law firm. On the international front, BHP denies liability in Brazil’s Fundão Dam collapse trial, a case involving over 600,000 claimants.
Technology in law is also under scrutiny, as a barrister warns about the risks of litigants-in-person using AI tools like ChatGPT for legal advice. And in a lighter moment, email etiquette is in the spotlight after a junior lawyer faced backlash for addressing a hiring manager by their first name.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we dive into the latest developments in the legal world. A new LawCare report reveals a 35% rise in legal professionals seeking support for stress and anxiety, emphasising the pressure in the profession. Meanwhile, HMRC and the DBT launch a consultation on e-invoicing, aiming to streamline business processes and reduce paperwork burdens.
Sustainability is also in the spotlight, as gas leaks at three law firms reportedly produced emissions equivalent to 500,000 miles driven, raising concerns about the sector’s environmental impact. On the salary front, Norton Rose Fulbright hikes NQ lawyer pay to £135,000, continuing the industry’s fierce competition for top talent.
We also cover a barrister’s suspension over inappropriate workplace conduct, the American Bar Association’s move to challenge Trump’s ‘equal merit’ order, and the government’s proposed cuts to solicitor apprenticeship funding, which could reshape the future of legal education.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we cover key developments reshaping the legal sector. The UK government announces a £12.5 million boost for the family court pilot scheme ‘Pathfinder,’ a move aimed at easing the burdens of overworked courts. Meanwhile, Linklaters and Herbert Smith Freehills launch their trainee retention campaigns as spring approaches, keeping the focus on retaining top legal talent.
We also discuss the booming $28.5 billion alternative legal services market, highlighting how law is evolving with innovative solutions. In other news, RPC pulls out of its planned Moorgate move, and Mishcon de Reya begins a redundancy consultation amidst shifting market conditions.
On a lighter note, Reese Witherspoon, star of Legally Blonde, was mistaken for a real lawyer during jury duty—sparking some amusing conversations. Lastly, we explore the future of AI in the legal world, with the Master of the Rolls urging that new technologies must uphold the rule of law, and legislative changes that could remove the time limit for child sexual abuse claims in the UK.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we cover major moves and courtroom wins in the legal world. Quinn Emanuel secures a significant victory for WeRealise against JP Morgan, while Hogan Lovells strengthens its presence in Italy by recruiting a five-member team from White & Case. Meanwhile, Pogust Goodhead undergoes leadership changes amid its C-suite shuffle.
We also delve into the heated Merricks v. Mastercard case, as the funder brings in top legal talent to challenge a settlement. On the regulatory front, the SRA addresses concerns about “teething problems” with the new SQE exam and promises adjustments.
On the salary front, Debevoise raises newly qualified lawyer pay to an eye-watering £173,100, reflecting fierce competition for top talent. Finally, we discuss Thorntons’ merger with Macnabs in Scotland and the legal sector’s ongoing struggle to meet sustainability goals amid cost pressures.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal updates!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we delve into the latest stories shaping the legal world. US law firms are making significant strides in the UK’s M&A market, doubling their presence among top advisers in just two years. Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court deliberates on where e-cigarette manufacturers can file lawsuits, a decision that could set a key precedent for future litigation.
We also explore the growing trend of law firms offering extra holidays for employees engaging in green travel initiatives—a win for sustainability and workplace wellbeing. On the mental health front, LawCare’s "Life in the Law 2025" surveys aim to address challenges in the legal profession, focusing on stress and wellbeing.
Finally, we discuss a sobering report on climate change, warning of catastrophic economic impacts by 2090 if immediate action isn’t taken. Tune in to understand how these pressing issues could reshape the legal landscape and influence your practice.
Unlock the secrets to thriving in today’s legal landscape! This video dives deep into essential leadership strategies and skills every modern lawyer needs to succeed. Whether you’re looking to innovate, enhance your understanding of the business of law, or stay ahead in the future of the legal industry, this podcast is for you. From actionable insights to transformative ideas, discover how to redefine your legal practice. Don't miss out—subscribe and join the conversation on shaping the future of law! 👉 Subscribe for more insights on legal innovation and strategy 👉 Share this video with colleagues ready to revolutionize their legal careers! 👉 Comment below: What’s your top priority for advancing in the legal field? For 10% off The Legal MBA Essentials enter LegalLoop10 at https://www.thelegal.mba/
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we unpack major moves and hot topics in the legal world. Skadden’s M&A partner makes a surprise return to the magic circle, while Linklaters faces challenges with its City HQ being deemed “unlettable.” Meanwhile, Gibson Dunn’s lawsuit for Lord Rothschild adds a touch of legal drama to the mix.
On the financial front, Blackstone Chambers raises its pupillage award to £90,000, and Simmons stirs up the Bristol market with a 25% pay hike for newly qualified solicitors, bringing salaries to £96,000. We also cover a cautionary tale of a junior solicitor struck off for misleading clients, and KPMG’s ambitious plans to enter the U.S. legal market, targeting a $400 billion opportunity.
As 2025 approaches, we reflect on the evolving legal landscape, from employment law changes to regulatory clarity on AI and the future of remote work. Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore the latest legal stories making waves. The Sixth Circuit strikes down net neutrality rules, raising questions about the future of internet access and its impact on consumers. Meanwhile, Amazon faces a monopoly lawsuit, which could reshape the e-commerce landscape in a classic David versus Goliath battle.
We also discuss Vermont’s groundbreaking but controversial ‘climate superfund’ law, now facing its first lawsuit, and the rapid growth of litigation finance as a $15.2 billion industry. Lastly, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority publishes a memorandum of understanding for regulating digital markets, signalling a more coordinated approach to overseeing tech giants.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we dive into key developments shaping the legal world. Clifford Chance and Slaughter and May lead a major insurance takeover, set to reshape the market, while Linklaters sells its process agency business in a bold strategic move. We also discuss Ian Rosenblatt’s push for a board overhaul at RBG, adding a dose of boardroom drama to our roundup.
On the litigation front, the Serious Fraud Office charges five individuals in connection with Axiom Ince's £60 million client fund collapse—a stark reminder of the importance of financial integrity. Meanwhile, a recent appeal grants additional legal aid funding, giving hope to advocates for justice.
In lighter news, the legal community debates the best typeface for legal documents, with some playful love (and hate) for Comic Sans. Finally, the UK’s plan to sign the Hague 19 convention promises smoother international legal cooperation.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we cover the latest legal stories making headlines. The Serious Fraud Office charges five Axiom Ince executives over allegations of misusing £60 million in client funds—a major blow to the firm and a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in the legal industry.
We also explore the £50,000 fine issued to an Osborne Clarke partner by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, involving a sensitive email about former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi. Meanwhile, the High Court’s ruling on divorces mistakenly approved due to a computer glitch raises critical questions about tech reliability in legal processes.
In other updates, Criminal Legal Aid rates rise by 12%, addressing concerns about the financial sustainability of the sector. Finally, South Wales firm Gomer Williams spreads festive cheer with a heartwarming Christmas video, showcasing the positive impact law firms can have in their communities.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we dive into high-stakes legal stories making waves. Latham & Watkins and Paul Weiss lead a massive €1.5 billion deal involving Stonepeak, while Latham & Signature settle a major feud between Barclays and Allianz—proving that negotiation can be more effective than courtroom drama.
We also explore Hengeler’s setback in securing private equity-backed German firms and Simmons & Simmons’ landmark class action victory for BT, reshaping the litigation landscape. On the disciplinary front, an ex-Freshfields partner faces suspension for inappropriate conduct during a taxi ride, underscoring the importance of professionalism.
In sports law, Arsenal and Liverpool settle a significant insurance dispute, showcasing teamwork beyond the pitch. Lastly, the High Court rules that divorces wrongly approved due to a computer glitch will stand, highlighting how technology continues to intersect with the legal system.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore the latest stories shaping the legal world. A Thomson Reuters Institute report reveals that only 2% of law firms and in-house teams require AI skills for new lawyers—but experts predict this will change soon. Is it time for aspiring lawyers to brush up on their tech skills?
We also discuss High Court Judge Sir Brian Leveson’s review of the jury trial system, which could introduce “intermediate courts” to address case backlogs. It’s a potential game-changer for the criminal justice system. Meanwhile, UK legal exports have surged by nearly 40% in two years, highlighting the growing global demand for British legal services.
On the tech and commercial front, Meta edges closer to resolving a major social media outage, while Scotland’s First Minister fights to protect whisky from US tariffs. Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal updates!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore exciting developments in the legal sector. BARBRI partners with UK universities to embed SQE prep technology into master's programs, equipping future solicitors with essential tools for success. The Bar Standards Board announces a new apprenticeship standard, making the barrister profession more accessible than ever.
We also discuss Paul Weiss scaling back operations in Beijing, highlighting a trend of major US firms reassessing strategies in China. On a lighter note, Tesla, led by Elon Musk, pushes the UK government to raise costs for petrol car drivers—a legal nudge towards electric vehicles.
Finally, we cover the European Commission’s implementation of the General Product Safety Regulation, a move aimed at enhancing consumer safety across the EU. Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore the latest legal stories making waves. Hunton Andrews Kurth makes a bold move, recruiting 11 lawyers from EY Law in a shakeup that highlights shifts in the legal job market. Meanwhile, the Bar Council raises concerns over the lengthy misconduct probe into Jo Sidhu KC, reminding us of the intense scrutiny legal professionals face.
In corporate news, Norton Rose and Allen & Overy Shearman team up to support BP's offshore wind venture, showcasing renewables as a growing focus for legal expertise. On the tech front, AI adoption is rising in the legal sector, but new lawyers aren’t expected to be AI experts just yet.
We also cover a troubling case of a former lawyer sentenced to prison for stalking neighbours, and a Law Society report revealing the UK legal sector’s impressive £44 billion turnover. Finally, a barrister faces a tribunal over a controversial tweet, sparking discussions about culture in the legal profession.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore the latest stories shaping the legal world. Bird & Bird introduces an innovative sustainability initiative with coffee face scrubs made from food waste—an eco-friendly and pampering solution for their employees.
We also delve into the multi-billion dollar Russian aviation trial, which has taken a dramatic pause, leaving stakeholders on edge. Meanwhile, Addleshaw and Fieldfisher lead the high-profile sale of Observer, showcasing strategic moves in the legal sector.
In other headlines, a London lawyer faces scrutiny for using a client account to fund £14 million in lavish purchases, and the Court of Appeal reviews a GP contract dispute with potentially far-reaching implications for healthcare law.
Finally, we address a pressing issue: limited progress for Black barristers in securing tenancies compared to their white peers, spotlighting ongoing challenges in diversity and equality within the profession.
Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of legal insights!
In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we discuss Paul Weiss’s bold decision to exit the Chinese market, joining other U.S. firms scaling back in the region. Meanwhile, the UK legal sector celebrates impressive growth, with a 50% increase in gross value added over the past decade—an encouraging sign for the industry.
We also delve into the challenges facing apprenticeship programs, as funding cuts threaten future talent development in law. Additionally, a recent study highlights the ethical dilemmas junior lawyers face when firm values clash with personal beliefs, raising concerns about workplace well-being.
Finally, we wrap up with the latest news in mergers and acquisitions, including Vodafone and Three’s major merger announcement and strategic hires across Africa. Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal updates!
