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In-House Legal Professionals in Nottingham: Join the Nottinghamshire Law Society and the Nottinghamshire Junior Lawyers Division!
Written by Charlotte Harvie, NJLD Member and Warhammer
For many junior in-house solicitors and paralegals, professional networks can feel geared towards private practice. The legal profession is steeped in traditions rooted in chambers, courtrooms, and corporate firms. But that doesn’t mean in-house legal teams should remain on the outskirts of the local legal community.
Joining the Nottinghamshire Law Society (NLS) and the Junior Lawyers Division (NJLD) is not just a worthwhile step for in-house professionals; it’s an essential one. Here's why:
Visibility and Representation for In-House Lawyers
NJLD has historically seen greater engagement from private practice solicitors, trainees, and paralegals – but the in-house voice is growing. By joining, you contribute to a shift that ensures in-house unique challenges and perspectives are heard.
As in-house legal work continues to expand in scope, complexity, and influence, it’s important we shape the conversations happening in our local legal networks. The more of us who are active members, the more tailored events, training, and networking opportunities we’ll see for in-house professionals.
Access to Cross-Sector Networking
One of the greatest benefits of NJLD and NLS membership is the access it gives you to a diverse legal community. As in-house professionals, we’re often either within a small team providing advice to larger creative teams, or the sole legal expert in our organisation. This can be isolating.
Attending NJLD and NLS events creates opportunities to connect with peers across practice areas; from commercial to IP. These connections are invaluable for informal advice, cross-referrals, and building trusted local networks.
Tailored Training and CPD
NLS offers regular CPD-accredited events, often in partnership with leading legal training providers. These cover a broad range of practice areas, soft skills, and regulatory updates that are just as relevant to in-house work as they are to private practice.
Moreover, being an active member allows you to suggest training themes that align with in-house roles, such as:
- Contract negotiation strategy
- Data protection in practice
- Legal project management
- Working with internal stakeholders
Career Development and Mentorship
Whether you're a paralegal, trainee, or junior counsel, NJLD provides mentorship opportunities and career support that can be harder to come by in an in-house setting. It’s a place to meet people who’ve navigated similar paths and can offer guidance, encouragement, or even just a sounding board.
Additionally, involvement in the NJLD committee or Law Society working groups can demonstrate initiative and leadership – valuable qualities for in-house progression.
A Social (and Supportive) Lifeline
Finally, both NLS’s and NJLD’s calendar is full of friendly, inclusive social events, from quiz nights and summer soirée to charity fundraisers. These aren’t just fun; they’re part of building a professional identity outside your organisation.
Being part of a community that understands the pressures of legal life can make all the difference to your wellbeing and confidence.
In-House Professionals: Your Seat at the Table Awaits
By joining NLS and NJLD, in-house professionals can ensure they’re not just part of the profession - you’re actively shaping its future.
So whether you’re new to the role, looking to expand your network, or ready to step up and lead, there’s no better time to get involved. To join the NJLD as an individual, contact shannon@austinmoore.com (members must be less than 5 years PQE). To join the NLS as a business or an individual, contact michelle.foster@nottslawsoc.org.
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