2023/24 Returners Programme

This year's programme is now in session. To be added to a waiting list please email the member services team on memberservices@lawsociety.ie 

Programme information

The Law Society’s Returners Programme commences in October 2023 and involves a series of information sessions and workshops that will be conducted over video and Zoom (mornings). 

The workshops and other supports will assist you with CV drafting and interview preparation, as well as regulatory responsibilities, upskilling opportunities and other critical return-to-work matters.

Through this programme for solicitors, you will be able to:

• identify what personal success can look like and put your priorities centre-stage,

• confidently make decisions that support your values and personal vision of success, and

• connect and share tips with others with a similar career path and aspirations.

For solicitors with family care responsibilities who are returning to legal work, the programme is designed to help you manage increased demands on your time, focus on your personal priorities and to identify job market opportunities that align with what you are looking for work-wise. Having completed the sessions, you will:

• understand different approaches and solutions for combining job seeking, working and family life,

• clarify what’s most important and make choices in line with your personal priorities identified, and

• learn how to find suitable opportunities in the job market.

Testimonials

Excellent service which should be publicised more. When you take time out, it's great to see how the job market has developed and what new opportunities have risen post Covid. Shane was very supportive in any area one required help….I feel more confident in returning due to my participation on this course. Thank you. Overall, a very positive experience. 5 stars.

Annette – Returners Programme 22/23

This course is a fabulous resource for members of the profession who are returning after a period of absence. The personal connection with the group of participants and with Shane throughout is invaluable I am very grateful to the Law Society for providing this course as it has been a wonderful resource in providing me with the information that I need to secure a position. A very big thank you to Shane for all his hard work in facilitating the programme and for his ongoing assistance, it is much appreciated.

Sinead – Returners Programme 22/23

The course is a wonderful steppingstone to help in the return to work as not only does it provide the practical tools but also boosts confidence through meeting others in the same situation. It helped me make the practical preparations for returning to work in what felt like a daunting prospect in some ways after being away for a number of years. The after support is invaluable as my return will be later in the year and being able to ask questions and receive guidance after the course is a wonderful comfort. The other participants were supportive and encouraging which is also reassuring and no doubt we can help each other in our careers anytime….meeting others is invaluable in not just networking but encouraging the next step in my career. I would see other initiatives in a positive light as a result. I hope the course will continue to flourish and help returners like me make the step back to work. I’d recommend the course without hesitation. The course leader was very kind and patient and has provided their time even after the course finished as the return process is ongoing for me. Many thanks to the course leader and all involved.

Maria – Returners Programme 22/23

I think this is an invaluable service for people like me returning to the workforce. We have so much to offer and most of us just need that extra bit of support. The encouragement and guidance that Shane gives in bucket-loads. It is overwhelming and difficult to know where to start when contemplating a return to work and this programme offers practical guidance and support for getting started and right the way through your career.

Karen Grenham - Returners Programme 22/23

I found this course really helpful; it gave me confidence to apply for roles which I would not have applied for. Shane was very helpful. I enjoyed the course and hearing everyone else’s experience.

Anonymous - Returners Programme 22/23

I’m really impressed with the programme. Shane was excellent and the other participants were honest, authentic, and supportive.… it’s reignited my passion for law. The networking was invaluable too. Shane was brilliant…. Many thanks for such a positive experience.

Joanne - Returners Programme 22/23

Need Assistance

If you have any queries, please contact the Member Services team on memberservices@lawsociety.ie