Broadcaster tightens panel links with new legal training initiatives

ITV is calling on its legal panel firms to supply a range of new training and pro bono initiatives.

The broadcaster is launching its ITV legal excellence and responsibility programme next month, which will see it team up with panel firms for a series of training initiatives, including secondments.

Around 90 ITV lawyers, company secretariat staff and paralegals are expected to take part in the scheme, which will be led by ITV head of legal affairs Barry Matthews, over the next two years.

It will ultimately see eight ITV trainees being sent on six-month secondments with Slaughter and May, Lovells, Olswang, DLA Piper or Addleshaw Goddard over the period.

In addition, Addleshaws will run a mini 'MBA' programme intended to provide ITV lawyers with business administration training covering areas including finance.

Olswang's commercial and litigation teams will provide training in contract law, while DLA Piper is providing workshops on intellectual property.

On the pro bono front, Lovells has formed a partnership with ITV. The pair will be setting up a legal clinic in conjunction with Body & Soul – a charity supporting children and families affected by HIV.

The monthly clinics will be run by Lovells and ITV lawyers and are designed to provide free one-on-one or group sessions.

Matthews said: "Having been on both sides of the fence, I believe the key difference between the two methods of practice is not the quality of lawyer but rather the quality of legally-focused support and opportunity.

"Given the refreshed emphasis placed on added value by ITV, now is the time to create parity for ITV lawyers when it comes to support and pro bono opportunities."