The Law Society has revamped the rules governing the standards trainee solicitors and the organisations that train them must meet.


A new on-line reference system, Training trainee solicitors: the Law Society requirements, last month replaced the Authorisation Guide 2003 as the means by which the Society exercises its powers.



Jo Larbie, chairwoman of the Society's training committee, told the Gazette that the on-line system would be a far quicker way of updating the rules and a less expensive method of notifying firms of any changes compared to the post.



Key changes include an updated code on the recruitment and selection of trainees, as well as a greater number of practical tips on effective supervision.


Any changes to the rules will be put on-line, with the Law Society not planning to distribute them in printed form.


Ms Larbie said: 'It is really about making it a much more user-friendly guide both for trainees and trainers.'


The system includes hyperlinks to forms and sample records trainees and employers can use.