Singapore Law Society study reveals 61% of young lawyers quit due to mental health crisis
Late nights, yelling bosses, and zero margin for error push lawyers out by year two.
Deep Dive
A four-year study by the Law Society of Singapore and Anthro Insights surveyed 855 lawyers and conducted 31 in-depth interviews. It found that poor mental health is the primary driver of attrition among young lawyers. Former lawyer Dominic Low quit after being asked to return to work past midnight for an international client.
Key Points
- Four-year study by Law Society of Singapore and Anthro Insights surveyed 855 lawyers and interviewed 31 legal professionals, including former judges.
- Poor mental health identified as the primary reason young lawyers leave, often within the first two years (the 'courtship phase').
- Former lawyer Dominic Low quit after being asked to return to office past midnight for a client, working until 2am; cited yelling and zero margin for error.
Why It Matters
Legal sector faces talent drain as poor mental health and toxic culture drive young lawyers away, threatening industry sustainability.