Trainee retention figures published today by two international firms provide mixed evidence of confidence in the legal services market. Autumn 2022 retention rates - an important indicator of sentiment - are down on last year's at Eversheds Sutherland (pictured above) but rose slightly at DAC Beachcroft.  

Eversheds Sutherland announced that 34 of its 43 legal trainees (79%) had accepted roles as newly qualified solicitors. An additional eight UK trainees qualified six months early in March this year, resulting in an overall UK trainee retention rate of 82%, the firm said. The rate last year was 87%. 

This number includes the firm’s first cohort of legal apprentices, who will join the firm’s practice teams, six as lawyers and one as a legal technologist. Lorraine Kilborn, chief people officer, said: 'Attracting, retaining and developing diverse junior talent, from a range of socio-economic backgrounds, will enable our firm to grow and we are pleased that so many young lawyers will now start their careers at the firm.' Kilborn revealed that 10 former paralegals are taking the new Solicitors Qualifying Examination route to becoming solicitors. 

DAC Beachcroft meanwhile announced that it will retain 89% of its trainees, with 16 of the newly qualified lawyers (NQs) staying on in permanent roles at the firm. Last year's figure was 87%. The NQs will be based in London, Bristol, Manchester and Leeds. 

Anthea Lane, partner and training principal at DAC Beachcroft, said: 'We are delighted to welcome them to our team of talented colleagues, who are recognised for their insights and outstanding commitment to client service.'