Helpline FAQ
These are just examples of the typical questions asked and the type of advice the helpline can provide. However, this section is in no way intended to be comprehensive and if you need help we strongly advise you to pick up the phone and call us.
I am a trainee in my third seat at a City firm, and I feel I am progressing well. However, last week I was told that I have a meeting with my supervisor to discuss my performance. I have heard from a colleague that they are planning to get rid of me because my ‘face doesn’t fit’. Can they do this?
Although it may be difficult, try not to worry too much until you have actually had the meeting. It is not easy for a firm to terminate a training contract without both parties’ mutual consent. If you do not agree to the termination of the training contract it may only be terminated by the Law Society. The Law Society is able to take action in cases where a firm can show poor performance on the part of the trainee. In such a situation a full investigation would be carried out by the Law Society. As a trainee you would be given the chance to respond to any allegations made, and you may decide to have some legal representation.
If you are sure that performance is not the real issue at stake, and believe you are a victim of discrimination, you are able to take your complaint to the Office for the Supervision of Solicitors. Any formal decision will be made through the adjudication procedure. For further advice you can speak to the Legal Education and Training Department at the Law Society on 0870 606 2555. You may also find it useful to obtain some specialist employment law advice.
