At a Glance
- Tasks: Support solicitors in various legal departments and gain hands-on experience.
- Company: Join Judge & Priestley LLP, a leading regional law firm with a progressive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and wellness initiatives.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values your contributions from day one.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with meaningful responsibilities and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2:1 degree in Law or relevant subject; paralegal experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31875 - 32875 £ per year.
A number of trainee solicitor opportunities are available across our September 2027 and February 2028 intakes. Assessment Centres will be held on Thursday 11th and Friday 12th March 2027. Deadline for applications: Friday 20th November 2026.
Judge & Priestley LLP is a Legal 200 leading regional law firm, serving a wide range of commercial and private clients across South East London and the surrounding counties. From our Head Office in Bromley and additional offices in Beckenham, Blackheath, Sidcup and London, we provide expert legal services across a broad range of practice areas. Established in 1889, we've evolved into a modern, progressive firm with a strong reputation for developing talent, promoting from within and creating an inclusive workplace where people can thrive.
Our commitment to a People First culture means that the wellbeing, development and success of our people sit at the heart of everything we do. This dedication was recognised nationally when we received the LexisNexis Wellbeing Award, celebrating the firm's ongoing commitment to supporting employee wellbeing and fostering a positive working environment.
We are always looking for bright and enthusiastic individuals who share our values. In return, we will invest in your development, provide excellent learning opportunities, and support you in achieving your full potential. Our teams specialise in key areas of law, including Housing Management, Private Client, Debt Recovery, Family, Residential Conveyancing, Property Litigation, Property Development and Commercial Property, delivering forward-thinking legal solutions to a loyal and growing client base.
At J&P, you won't be just another trainee. You'll be part of a supportive and collaborative team where your contribution is valued from day one. We pride ourselves on providing meaningful responsibility, genuine career progression opportunities and a culture built on integrity, respect, wellbeing and community.
Your Training and Attributes
Your training
You will be working with solicitors and partners to support their activities and your training will be split between at least two of the following departments: Family, Property Development, Commercial Litigation, Residential Conveyancing, Commercial Property, Property Litigation and Housing Litigation (unless you are undertaking a specialised seat). From an early stage, you will be encouraged, under supervision, to take on direct client contact and work on live matters as part of your training and progression. Successful candidates at J&P have, in the past, progressed their careers within the business up to partner level. During your training you will be involved in intellectually challenging work and be provided with the support needed to flourish into an outstanding solicitor. You will be expected to put in lots of hard work and plenty of commitment to achieve the best results for the firm and for our clients. You will be expected to behave in a way that is representative and in line with our values and demonstrate these values on a daily basis.
Your attributes
You are a bright enthusiastic candidate with proven academic abilities and have a genuine desire and talent for a career in law. As an able and committed team player you enjoy legal research and are committed to taking the lead in enhancing your knowledge to ensure that you have a strong understanding of the law. You also have a practical problem-solving approach and the ability to think creatively whilst working efficiently in a fast-paced environment. You will be committed to developing the “soft skills” that our profession requires in order to develop and further good relationships with colleagues, our clients and fellow professionals.
Eligibility Criteria
- Two-year Training Contract leading to qualification under the LPC route.
- A minimum 2:1 degree classification in Law or a relevant subject. We will also consider candidates with a 2:2 who can demonstrate strong potential and provide context regarding their academic results.
- If you do not hold a qualifying law degree, you must have achieved at least a 2:1 in your degree and a Commendation or above in the GDL. Applications from candidates with a 2:2 degree may be considered where supporting information is provided.
- Successful completion of the Legal Practice Course with distinction or commendation or are in the process of completing your Legal Practice Course at present with predicted grades of a distinction or commendation.
- SQE Training Contract (24 months) - A minimum 2:1 degree classification in Law or a relevant subject. We will also consider candidates with a 2:2 who can demonstrate strong potential and provide context regarding their academic results.
- If you do not hold a qualifying law degree, you must have achieved at least a 2:1 in your degree and a Commendation or above in the GDL. Applications from candidates with a 2:2 degree may be considered where supporting information is provided.
- At least 6 months experience as a paralegal or a legal assistant gained in a legal organisation, preferably in private practice.
Salary & Benefits and How to Apply
We offer an attractive salary and benefits. The successful candidate will be paid £31,875 per annum in their first year and £32,875 per annum in their second year of training. At J&P, we believe our people are our greatest asset. Alongside 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, you'll benefit from a market-leading package including a profit share bonus, Medicash plan with virtual GP access, birthday leave, paid volunteering days, long service awards, employer pension contributions, death in service cover, cycle to work scheme, and support with legal fees. As a firm that genuinely invests in its people, we are proud to offer clear progression opportunities, award-winning wellbeing initiatives and a supportive culture that helps our colleagues succeed.
Trainee Solicitor Opportunities employer: Judge & Priestley LLP
Judge and Priestley Solicitors LLP is an exceptional employer located in Bromley, offering a supportive and professional work environment that prioritises employee development and well-being. With a strong focus on team collaboration and client satisfaction, employees benefit from a profit share scheme, generous annual leave, and unique perks like birthday leave and a cycle to work scheme, all while contributing to meaningful legal outcomes in a dynamic litigation team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Solicitor Opportunities
✨Join Local Law Societies
Get involved with local law societies in your area. These groups often host networking events, workshops, and panels that can provide insider insights and potential job leads. It’s a great way to meet professionals who can vouch for you!
✨Leverage University Resources
Swing by your uni’s career centre and see what they’ve got on offer for law students. They usually have connections with firms looking for trainees, and can help you polish your interview skills through mock interviews. Don’t forget to ask about any upcoming recruitment fairs!
✨Connect with Trainee Alumni
Reach out to past trainees from your network or alumni groups. They can offer invaluable advice on their experiences and might even point you to firms that are hiring. Plus, you never know when a friendly face could help your application stand out!
✨Submit Direct Applications through Our Website
Don't wait around for listings! If you’ve got your heart set on a certain firm like Judge & Priestley LLP, drop them a direct application through their website. Tailor your cover letter to reflect your passion for law and what you can bring to their team!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Solicitor Opportunities
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Legal Acumen:Make sure your CV highlights your knowledge of legal principles and any relevant coursework. This is super important for a trainee role, so if you've got any practical experience like mooting competitions or internships, be sure to include those to show us what you've learned in practice!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Let us know why legal services excite you and detail your motivation for wanting to be a trainee with us at Judge & Priestley LLP. Share any unique experiences or insights you've had that relate to our work — we love to see passion!
Demonstrate Your Research Skills:As part of a legal team, strong research skills are key. If you've conducted any legal research during your studies or previous roles, mention specific cases or legal documents you've worked with. Including these details can set you apart from other candidates applying for your trainee spot.
Tailor Your Documents to Us:When applying through our website, make sure you're tailoring your CV and cover letter specifically for the role at Judge & Priestley LLP. Use our job posting as a guide to emphasize the skills and qualifications that align perfectly with the trainee position — it shows us you're keen and have done your homework!
How to prepare for a job interview at Judge & Priestley LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Get ready to showcase your understanding of key legal concepts and principles relevant to the field. Brush up on areas like contract law or torts, as you might encounter some scenario-based questions during your interview. It’s not just about memorising; be prepared to discuss how you'd apply these principles in real-world situations, which will highlight your analytical skills.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In legal interviews, your ability to conduct thorough research is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you approach case studies or legal precedents. You might also be asked about tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, so having some familiarity with these platforms can really set you apart.
✨Emphasise Your Enthusiasm for Learning
As a trainee, companies like Judge & Priestley LLP want to see your passion for the law and eagerness to learn. Bring up any relevant coursework, internships, or voluntary work during your studies. This shows that you're proactive and ready to embrace the challenges of the legal world.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect a few behavioural questions that probe your problem-solving and teamwork skills. Examples might relate to how you've handled conflict in a group project or dealt with tight deadlines. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly, making it easy for the interviewers to see your thought process.