DWF has posted a 100% retention rate for its autumn 2011 intake of newly-qualified lawyers (NQs).

The northwest firm, which runs one trainee intake each year, is set to keep on all 16 of its trainee solicitors. The figure marks an increase on last year's retention rate of 89%, when 16 of the 18 lawyers in the intake were offered roles with the firm.

Of the lawyers qualifying in September, six will be based in Manchester, five in Liverpool, one in London and two each in Preston and Leeds. The lawyers are spread across the firm's insurance, real estate, corporate, finance and restructuring and litigation practices.

Managing partner Andrew Leaitherland (pictured) commented: "These figures reflect our commitment to attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry. Despite challenging economic conditions, we have achieved significant growth and continue to be a top choice for aspiring lawyers."

Meanwhile, Scottish firm McGrigors has reported a 72% trainee retention rate, with 23 of 32 trainee solicitors accepting positions in the firm's offices across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Although the number is lower than that of many firms within the top 50, it represents an increase on the firm's 2010 trainee retention rate of 64%. At that time the firm offered roles to 23 of 33 applicants out of a total intake of 36 trainees.

while McGrigors retention rate from its trainee intake stood at only 72%, the firm also took on an additional 10 newly-qualified lawyer from outside the firm.

A spokesperson said: "Demand over the past calendar year has meant that there have been more NQ jobs available at McGrigors than there were internal candidates to fill them. As a result we have taken on further 10 new recruits, leaving us with a total of 33 NQs in the business."