Cibyl Levelling the Playing Field in Law 2026

Join us virtually or in-person at Clifford Chance in London, as we launch the findings from Cibyl's Levelling the Playing Field in Law research, with our headline partners Freshfields, Gateley, and Dentons, and our supporting partners Clifford Chance, Addleshaw Goddard, CMS, Osborne Clarke and Pinsent Masons.

This project looks at students' expectations and trainee experiences, with the aim to improve access to the legal sector for under-represented groups and improve retention of trainees and newly qualified solicitors. It also aims to inform careers guidance for universities, careers professionals and students.

Our research tells us that:

• 51% disagree that everyone has the same opportunities to succeed in the legal profession.
• 44% say they felt out of place, different or inadequate.
• 43% have reconsidered pursuing a legal career due to financial barriers.

We'll dig into these issues, look at key findings from the research and hear from students, trainees and partners.