CMS Cameron McKenna revealed what it described as an ‘uncharacteristically low’ trainee retention rate today (27 March), with only 61.5% of its 26-strong intake staying with the firm while Pinsent Masons secured 15 trainees but from a smaller round of 19.
CMS’ trainees will mostly join in London, which is receiving 14 of the 16, while Bristol will take two of the newly-qualified lawyers. The proportion reflects that of the original intake which had 23 based in the City and three in Bristol.
Penelope Warne (pictured), CMS’ senior partner, said: ‘Our wish is to offer positions to as many trainees as possible. As a firm we are utterly committed to developing and nurturing long-term careers. Although offers were made in the region of 80%, on this occasion a number of trainees decided to take positions in-house or outside the practice of law which meant that take-up was uncharacteristically low.’
Meanwhile, Pinsent Masons managed to secure 15 trainees out of its initial qualifying class of 19, giving it an overall rate of 79%. The firm saw 16 of the 19 actually apply for roles, with an offer being made to all of them.
The mark is a slight improvement on the firm’s Autumn rate which saw 76% of the 66-strong round accepting positions. On that occasion 60 applied with offers made to 51 and all but one of those accepting.
michael.west@legalease.co.uk