As nervous associates (and partners in some cases) sit out the downturn with crossed fingers and twiddling thumbs, it is no surprise that entrants into a legal career might be questioning the future. With the carnage at the end of 2008 and more job losses expected it does look somewhat bleak out there.

According to The Lawyer nearly 70 per cent of potential lawyers are concerned about their chances of securing a training contract. Only 26 per cent didn’t think the recession would affect their chances in gaining a training contract. Aside from the obvious risk that the firms themselves may resort to reducing their intakes, many law students are also worried about the increased competition from former banker wannabees…

Further down the career track, trainees that are due to qualify this year are also nervous about their employment prospects. With departments in the property and corporate sectors shedding jobs so heavily at the moment their fears have some merit.

However, it is probably worth bearing in mind that the downturn will not last forever and for those at the start of their career you have time on your side. Law firms generally recruit for the long term and most will not stop just because of the current market conditions so in the wise words of Mr Motivator, if you really want to get there stay positive and keep focused.