about us

Representing the North East’s law students, paralegals, trainee solicitors and solicitors up to 5 years PQE, the Junior Lawyers Division (JLD) is the result of the last year's merger of the former Trainee Solicitors’ Group (TSG) and Young Solicitors’ Group (YSG).  The Newcastle & North East JLD is managed by a committee which is elected from amongst our membership base.

Connecting People

We host a wide variety of events throughout the year including:

  • Social Events

  • Networking Opportunities

  • Training Sessions

  • Recruitment Talks

  • Black Tie Balls


These fun and relaxed events are well attended by a broad range of down-to-earth, like-minded people, at different stages of their careers.

Some of these events are sponsored and therefore FREE to members of the JLD. For more information on becoming a member, visit the 'Join Us' page for details.

Supporting the Community

It is one of our aims to maintain a positive image for members of our profession in Newcastle, the North East and beyond. We do this through discussions and open forums on relevant and topical subjects, as well as supporting charities both regionally and nationally.

Combining the influence of the region's Junior Lawyers

We arrange benefits and discounts for our members in the region as well as acting as a voice for our members when the opportunity or need arises.


the committee



  • Chair - Paul Appleton

  • Secretary - Laura McIlduff

  • Treasurer - Sophie Devlin

  • National JLD Liaison - Holly Clegg

  • Local Law Society Liaison -Natalie Keyes

  • Social Secretary - Christian Butler

  • Social Secretary - Claire Travis

  • Social Secretary - Katie Smurthwaite

  • Social Secretary - Lauren Hall

  • Student Rep - Richard Sen

  • Student Rep - Lucy Gray