• News
• • June 26, 2026

Bulkley Richardson Joins Innovative Program Creating Pathways into Legal Careers

Leap into Law, a new workforce development initiative designed to expand access to careers in the legal field, officially launched in Springfield and is currently underway with its first cohort of 15 participants. The program supports residents seeking stable, living-wage career opportunities within the legal services sector.

The initiative, funded by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development and the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation, is led by Springfield WORKS, a workforce development effort of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council. Springfield WORKS serves as a regional convener, bringing together employers, educators, and community organizations to build career pathways, support worker advancement, and pilot workforce solutions that strengthen economic mobility across Western Mass.

Leap into Law responds directly to the growing demand for entry-level and early-career legal talent. The program creates a clear and accessible pathway into the legal field through structured training and direct employer engagement.

Leap into Law prepares participants for in-demand legal support roles while helping employers build a stronger, more diverse talent pipeline. Program components include contextual training and hands-on skill development; digital literacy instruction; professional readiness and wraparound support; exposure to legal career pathways, including legal assistant and paralegal roles; employer engagement opportunities, including experiential activities and job shadowing; and support for notary public applications.