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Supporting Shanmugam's call for more data on lawyer attrition

Published July 27, 2026 at 8:02 AM UTC

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Law Minister Shanmugam's insistence on gathering more data before acting on lawyer attrition concerns is a prudent and responsible approach. Without reliable statistics, any policy intervention risks being either too little or too much. While the headline attrition rate appears stable, aggregate numbers can mask specific trouble spots—such as high turnover among junior lawyers in commercial firms or a disproportionate exodus of women. More granular data would reveal whether the concerns are concentrated in certain practice areas or firm sizes. It would also help distinguish between natural career mobility and problematic attrition caused by systemic issues like excessive workload or limited advancement. By calling for data, Shanmugam signals that the government takes the issue seriously but will not rush into measures that may have unintended consequences. This measured stance reassures law firms that their operational realities will be considered, and it gives the profession a chance to self-correct before external regulation becomes necessary. Ultimately, evidence-based policy is more likely to achieve lasting improvements in lawyer welfare and retention.