The next generation of lawyers expects to work more than 50 hours a week, research has revealed.


A survey of 70 law undergraduates and legal practice course students - conducted by publisher Sweet & Maxwell - revealed that around half of them (47%) would opt out of the Working Time Directive, which limits the working week to 48 hours.



Training and development opportunities were also cited as the key factor when choosing a firm. Almost half (42%) expected their peak earnings to exceed £70,000, with 3% anticipating £500,000 or more.



Sara Chandler, senior pro bono co-ordinator at the College of Law, said it was striking that so many students were prepared to sacrifice their home and social lives at such an early stage of their careers.



Trainee Solicitors Group president Melissa Worth said: 'It's a tough profession and there'll always be someone who'll work harder than you. It's a glamorous profession, too, at least from the outside and so people have high salary expectations.'



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Jonathan Rayner