Trainee Recruitment: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have studied a law degree?

We welcome applicants from legal and non-legal backgrounds. However, we do require that candidates have completed and passed either the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) 1 and 2 before commencing a training contract.

Do you need a certain level of qualification?

While we consider academic achievement, we also place strong emphasis on character and look for people with a great attitude who can contribute to the success of our hardworking teams.

We look for good grades, but we do not set specific minimum requirements. Although a First Class or 2:1 degree is preferred, applicants with a 2:2 degree will be considered if the rest of their application is sufficiently strong. Similarly, A levels (or equivalent) at A and B grades are preferred, but not essential. We weigh up each application as a whole.

Do you offer funding for qualifications?

We do not currently offer funding for SQE or LPC.

How many positions are available?

We usually offer between two and four training contracts.

Do many trainee solicitors stay with you after qualifying?

We are ideally looking for people who will qualify with us, stay with us, and make a real contribution to the team, perhaps becoming directors of the firm in the future. Many of our current directors and solicitors started as trainees at the firm.

What training seats will be available?

Most trainees are likely to gain experience across the board. This includes property, family, care, probate, commercial property, employment, and civil litigation.

Does previous work experience count at the firm. If so, will it shorten the length of the training contract?

We ask that all trainees complete the entire two-year training contract, irrespective of any previous work experience or Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) undertaken elsewhere.

What are the employment terms?

The training contract is a two-year fixed-term contract of employment. The contracted hours for a full-time training contract are 36.25 hours per week – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.15pm, with an hour lunch.