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- Tasks: Experience diverse legal practices through six seat rotations and work with high-profile clients.
- Company: Join Burges Salmon, an award-winning law firm in vibrant Bristol.
- Benefits: Earn from day one with increasing salary and supportive culture.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career in one of the UK's top cities to live and work.
- Qualifications: Open to law students and graduates; no prior legal knowledge required.
- Other info: Disability confident employer offering tailored support throughout the application process.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 70000 £ per year.
Discover an exceptional opportunity with our training contract in Bristol. Our training program offers six seat rotations, providing a broad range of experience across different legal practices. You’ll work with high-profile clients, gain insights into our sector approach, and be part of a supportive, collaborative and award-winning culture. Located in the vibrant city of Bristol, this is your chance to kickstart a successful legal career.
Application process
All applications must be made via the Burges Salmon website by clicking the pink "Apply Now" icon. Submit your application before midnight on 22 July 2026 to be considered. If you are invited to an Assessment Centre you will need to attend the Bristol office on 22nd or 23rd July 2026. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The assessment centres are in person at the Bristol office on these dates only; we are unable to be flexible with this. Keep these dates free as we may invite you to attend an assessment centre. If you cannot attend on these dates, we won’t be able to progress your application.
The application
After submitting your application form, you will receive an email inviting you to complete two online assessments. Your application will not be considered until both assessments are completed.
- Stage 1: Emerging Talent Assessment — Online and untimed (approx. 45 minutes). Simulates realistic workplace scenarios. Assesses decision-making, behaviours, and preferences. No legal knowledge required.
- Stage 2: Critical Reasoning Assessment — Timed online test (approx. 45 minutes), completed after Stage 1. Measures critical thinking and evidence-based judgement. Focuses on evaluating arguments, assumptions, and conclusions. Based on reasoning ability, not prior knowledge.
If you require any adjustments or have any accessibility requirements, please contact Grace Elliott or Jess McGee.
What We Offer You
You will be earning from day one. Your salary will increase each year as you gain experience.
- Bristol Salary
- Trainee Solicitor Year 1: £49,500
- Trainee Solicitor Year 2: £51,500
- Newly Qualified Solicitor: £76,000 as of September 2025
Training contract timeline
Successful applicants after the assessment centres will be invited back for a training contract interview in August 2026 (dates to be confirmed). If selected, you’ll be offered a training contract based in the Bristol office commencing in September 2028.
Disability and accessibility
We actively encourage individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or impairments to apply. We regularly implement adjustments throughout the recruitment process to support all candidates. We invite you to disclose any disability so we can provide tailored support during your application. We can make bespoke adjustments to assessments, interviews, and other stages to ensure equal opportunity. Applicants with a disability who meet minimum scoring criteria will be offered a place at an assessment centre.
Application eligibility: You may apply for only one training contract process at a time within a recruitment cycle. We recruit two years in advance, so you can apply from the second (or penultimate if studying a four-year course) year of a qualifying law degree or the final year of a non-law degree. We also welcome applicants who have graduated or are changing careers.
Get in touch
If you have any questions, please reach out to Grace Elliott. Deadline to apply: 6pm (BST) 22 June 2026. Ready to make the leap? Start your application today.
Bristol Training Contract 2028 - Direct Process employer: Burges Salmon LLP
Contact Detail:
Burges Salmon LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bristol Training Contract 2028 - Direct Process
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Burges Salmon's values, culture, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses during the assessment centre and show that you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Use online resources to simulate the types of assessments you'll face. Familiarise yourself with decision-making scenarios and critical reasoning exercises to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current trainees or employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even share their experiences, giving you an edge when it comes to understanding what Burges Salmon is really looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure you hit that pink 'Apply Now' button before the deadline. It’s the only way to get your foot in the door, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Bristol Training Contract 2028 - Direct Process
Some tips for your application 🫡
Start Early: Don’t leave your application to the last minute! We recommend starting your application well before the deadline. This gives you time to refine your answers and ensure everything is spot on.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect why you’re a great fit for our Bristol Training Contract. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills that align with what we’re looking for in candidates.
Be Yourself: We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Authenticity goes a long way in helping us see if you’d fit into our collaborative culture.
Check Your Details: Before hitting that submit button, double-check all your details. Typos or missing information can make a big difference. Remember, we want to see your best work, so take the time to polish it up!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burges Salmon LLP
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Even though the assessments don't require prior legal knowledge, it's still a good idea to brush up on basic legal principles and current events in the legal sector. This will help you feel more confident and prepared to discuss relevant topics during your interview.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Take the time to practice common interview questions, especially those related to teamwork and problem-solving. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easier for the interviewers to follow your thought process.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for law and the opportunity at Burges Salmon shine through. Research the firm’s culture and values, and be ready to explain why you want to be part of their team. A genuine interest can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This shows that you're engaged and interested in the role. You might ask about the types of cases you'll work on or how the firm supports professional development during the training contract.