First year recruitment concluded on Thursday, February 20th. Toronto’s legal offices hired 42 1Ls this year, versus last year’s 44. All data is self-reported by firms. Heydary Hamilton, who hired one student last year, could not be contacted for information.
Five firms hired less than last year: BLG, Cassels, Davies, Sherard Kuzz, and Torys. Notably, Davies hired only four versus last year’s nine. Three firms hired more this year: Blakes, Goodmans, and Osler. Note that Osler hired first years for the first time this year. Aird & Berlis, Bereskin & Parr, Dentons, and Smart & Biggar maintained last year’s levels. When reviewing these numbers, also remember that some firms made offers that were not accepted.
UT Law students took 19 spots last year (9 JD/MBAs and 10 JDs). Despite the shrinking first year recruiting numbers, our peers were fortunate to increase the total number of hires to 23. Even if we ignore the second year JD/MBA students, who snagged 13 spots (17 applied out of the class of 24), the first year pure JDs still had the greatest presence in the market. Keep in mind that the counts from Osgoode, Western, and Queen’s also include JD/MBA students.
Congratulations to all. And, if you applied but did not receive an offer, remember that this process is just one of many opportunities to start a career at a firm.
