Linklaters is to retain 49 of its current trainee intake, representing a 79% retention rate after 62 applied for a newly-qualified role at the firm.

Of the 67 trainees due to qualify from the current intake, five resigned before the application process commenced.

The retention rate of 79% is down from a September 2008 peak of 94%, with the number falling during 2009 to 84% in March and 82% in September.