Jan 23, 2019

Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD

Jan 23, 2019

The Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD is a recently re-energised division, which has been mainly centred in Cheltenham, but has plans to expand further into Gloucester. The Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD has been around in various iterations for a few years, but the recently revamped committee is even more dedicated to expanding and making the division as relevant and supportive as possible for its members. The Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD is uniquely placed to help junior lawyers in the local area meet like-minded individuals, who are at similar stages in their careers.

The Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD holds regular events with legal recruiters and other professionals who are able to provide advice, guidance and insights into other career development routes. Our recent events include talks by a Deputy District Judge, a Notary Public and a Family Law Mediator, all of whom provided details of their backgrounds and the routes into their profession, including their own reasons for pursuing these particular careers. There is also ample opportunity for our members to share their own experiences, with their personal career progression, as well as their knowledge on the realities of the profession.

In Cheltenham and Gloucester, there are a variety of firms, ranging from small high street practices to national commercial firms, covering areas of law from general practice to niche specialisms such as science and technology and media law.

Social events are organised on an ad hoc basis, and range from informal drinks to rounders matches, charity quizzes and a Christmas meal. The events have, to date, been mainly held in Cheltenham, however more events are being planned in Gloucester over the coming months. It is the aim of the committee to hold monthly events, which include both social events and educational evenings.

Any young lawyer who has moved into the area, or has plans to move into the area, is encouraged to get in touch. The Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD is made up of friendly people, who are always willing to help. Many of our members have commented that, on attending their first meeting, they have felt instantly at ease and have been made to feel part of the group. Whilst there is no formal buddy system in place, introductions are made to help young lawyers build a trusted support network with others who may be in a similar stage in life.

Social calendar for 2019

February – “Equality and Diversity” in association with CRS

March – “Private practice vs. In-house” in association with Hughes Paddison

April – “Career development NQ to 2PQE” (with wine tasting) in association with Chadwick Nott and CRS

May – Open members meeting

June – Speed networking

July – Informal social

August – Networking skills in association with BPE

September – TBC

October – Managing stress

November – Speed networking

December – Christmas meal

Behind every JLD there is a group of real people who make it work and benefit from what it has to offer. This is what members of the Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD had to say:

“The young lawyers that I met through Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD events were instrumental in my decision on where to train. A firm can be many things on paper, but it’s the people that make it tick. The Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD allowed me to make a real-life assessment of the local firms.” - Kathryn

“It was refreshing to meet other younger lawyers, who are on a similar career path as me, as well as those who are in areas of law, that I have no experience of. Upon meeting the group, everyone was very friendly and willing to swap trainee solicitor stories, as well as guidance on the dos and don’ts of being a trainee solicitor. It has been refreshing to meet such a down-to-earth group of people, who are interested in helping each other out, as well as having a laugh after work.” - Nicole

“It’s not just another opportunity to network. Members have the ability to benefit from a range of seminars and careers events, aimed at everyone. So wherever you are in your legal career, the Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD can enhance your expertise and help you progress.” - Hannah W

Cheltenham and Gloucester offer more than most: beautiful Cotswold countryside on your doorstep, Gloucester Cathedral, plenty of shopping, food and social areas, as well as hosting big sporting and musical events at either Cheltenham Racecourse or Gloucester Rugby Club. Cheltenham also hosts a selection of festivals throughout the year including music, jazz, literature and science. Being only a stone’s throw away from each other, Cheltenham and Gloucester complement each other nicely, ensuring that there really is something for everyone.

Cheltenham and Gloucester both offer a better work-life balance in comparison to other major cities in the surrounding area, whatever your specialism. Both are looking towards increased commercial development, constant regeneration and represent a real opportunity for firms and individuals to grow.

If you are interested in joining the Cheltenham & Gloucester JLD, or even just to receive our regular events emails, please do contact us on jld.cheltenham.gloucester@outlook.com to be added to our group’s mailing list.

Junior Lawyers Division