At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Corporate, Commercial and IP teams as a Paralegal, progressing to trainee solicitor.
- Company: Dynamic law firm in Cardiff with a focus on innovation and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, medical insurance, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Part-time options available for those balancing studies; inclusive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with hands-on experience and client contact from day one.
- Qualifications: 2:1 law degree or above, strong commercial awareness, and enthusiasm for corporate law.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated, commercially minded and ambitious individual to join our Corporate, Commercial and Intellectual Property teams as a Paralegal, starting in September 2026.
Location: Cardiff Office
Salary: Competitive
The successful candidate will initially undertake a 6–12-month paralegal role, with the view to progressing towards a trainee solicitor position, subject to performance. We offer our trainees the SQE route to qualification in addition to the traditional training contract option for those who have completed the Legal Practice Course. The role is envisaged as full‑time, but part‑time applicants who need to accommodate legal studies may also be considered. During the training period the candidate will work directly with partners and assist other solicitors on a variety of matters, and will have client contact from an early stage to develop confidence and client relationships.
Applicant Criteria
- We are looking for candidates who demonstrate strong commercial awareness and a clear interest in corporate, commercial and IP law.
- Have a 2:1 law degree or above.
- Show commitment, enthusiasm and drive to excel in the legal profession.
- Have an interest in the Welsh business market.
- Be able to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and practically.
- Have experience in client‑facing environments (legal or otherwise).
- Be a proactive team player.
- Relevant work experience in a corporate/commercial legal environment is desirable but not essential.
Salary and Benefits
- A competitive salary, reviewed annually.
- 22 days annual leave (increasing to a maximum of 28 days), plus bank holidays.
- Office Christmas Shutdown.
- Eye care and private medical insurance (after qualifying period).
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), providing confidential support and advice.
- Clear career progression opportunities.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We are a Disability Confident Employer and committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment. We encourage equality and diversity and treat all job applicants fairly.
CORPORATE, COMMERCIAL & IP PARALEGAL/TRAINEE SOLICITOR in Cardiff employer: Berry Smith LLP
Join a dynamic and inclusive team in our Cardiff office, where we prioritise employee growth and development through clear career progression opportunities. As a Disability Confident Employer, we foster a supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages ambition, making it an excellent place for aspiring legal professionals to thrive. With competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and access to health benefits, we are committed to providing a rewarding and meaningful employment experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CORPORATE, COMMERCIAL & IP PARALEGAL/TRAINEE SOLICITOR in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the corporate and commercial law sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the firm thoroughly, understand their values, and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. Practise common interview questions and think about how you can showcase your commercial awareness and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Even if you don’t have direct legal experience, highlight any client-facing roles or relevant projects. We want to see your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and your proactive approach to teamwork.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to kickstart your legal career!
We think you need these skills to ace CORPORATE, COMMERCIAL & IP PARALEGAL/TRAINEE SOLICITOR in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for corporate, commercial, and IP law! In your application, share why you're excited about this area of law and how it aligns with your career goals. A genuine interest can really make you stand out.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight any relevant experience, even if it's not strictly legal. We want to see how your skills and experiences relate to the position, so don’t be shy about showcasing your client-facing roles!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us about your journey, your motivations, and what makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Berry Smith LLP
✨Know Your Law
Brush up on corporate, commercial, and IP law basics. Make sure you can discuss recent developments in these areas, especially those relevant to the Welsh business market. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Awareness
Be prepared to discuss how current events impact businesses and legal practices. Think about how you can apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios, demonstrating that you understand the commercial landscape.
✨Practice Client Communication
Since client contact is a big part of the role, practice explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms. You might even want to role-play with a friend to get comfortable with this aspect of the job.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your experiences working in teams, whether in previous jobs or during your studies. Show that you’re a proactive team player who can collaborate effectively with others, as this is crucial in a legal environment.
