Legal Apprenticeship in Belfast

We have an exciting opportunity for a Legal Apprentice to join our Risk function in the A&O Shearman Belfast office. Apprentices will be employed within A&O Shearman's Risk function and will gain experience across a number of different sub-teams such as In-House Legal, the Business Acceptance Unit, Risk Operations (including Client Audit), the Engagement Terms Team, and Data Privacy while studying for your LLB at Ulster University one day per week. This is an exciting opportunity with the chance to build relationships and gain first-hand experience of what working in-house in a global industry-leading law firm is like. The firm, in partnership with University of Ulster, will be committed to investing in training to enable you to gain your LLB. The apprenticeship is offered as a 4-year fixed term contract. For the apprentice there's no cost to do a higher level or degree apprenticeship. You'll be paid as an employee of A&O Shearman as well as receiving a university education that is paid for by the Department for the Economy. Take the first step towards a successful legal career and apply now!

What you will have:

• Previous experience is not required, we are looking for candidates with an interest in pursuing a role in the Legal sector.
• 3 A Levels (grades AAB or equivalent)
• 3 GCSEs (grades C or above, including English Language)

What we offer:

The apprenticeship scheme at A&O Shearman is truly an exceptional experience. If successful, you will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced lawyers and other legal professionals on key projects and contribute to the growth of the business. You will have the opportunity to develop key legal skills by working with clients and offices across the globe, while also gaining exposure to cutting edge Legal Technology.

Application Process:

The application process for the Legal Apprenticeship involves:

• Online application
• Assessment Centre (including work simulated tasks, group exercises and an interview)
• Offer

The start date for the apprenticeship will be early September 2026.

Benefits and Working Arrangements:

We recognise that our people are our most valuable asset, which is reflected in the wide range of benefits that are available to our employees. Some of these benefits include: our occupational pension scheme, group income protection cover, mental health resources and free apps, health and wellbeing services encompassing GP service, emergency back-up care support, parental and special leave, online discounts and lifestyle management services. We recognise the value of flexible working and embrace hybrid working, allowing our people to work from home up to 40% of their working time. We do, however, remain committed to working together in person for the remaining 60% of time so that we can learn, grow and succeed together.

Should you require additional support at any stage of the recruitment process due to a disability or a health condition, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our recruitment team who will work with you to provide any adjustments as required. We are an equal opportunities recruiter and do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

If this role is not of interest we may have another suitable opportunity here for you at A&O Shearman! Visit our careers portal at A&O Shearman Careers and submit your CV to our Talent Network to be notified when the perfect opportunity becomes available.