Key findings

This is a complex issue and, as expected, the research team did not find a simple or single cause or solution to the issue. Most past research focused only on one aspect of the potential causes but we were determined to explore all the relevant factors and understand how they overlapped and affected candidates through their legal education and journey into the profession.

The findings have confirmed the complexity and breadth of the potential causes that were identified through the literature review. The research also provides evidence of how potential causes combine to impact education outcomes (including in legal professional assessments).

The research report highlights a wide range of possible ways to address the differential outcomes for minority ethnic students. Including many ongoing initiatives that we and others can learn from.

An overview of the findings by theme are set out below.