Solicitor Apprentice 2026- Yorkshire (Leeds)

Discover how a global law firm helps clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. At DLA Piper, our pursuit of innovation has transformed the delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes. For our people, that means a world of opportunity.

Explore the intersection of law and business by joining our Solicitor Apprenticeship in Yorkshire (Leeds) and you will start to build the foundations of your legal career, collaborating with colleagues and clients on high-value matters that shape industries. Give your career the best platform and discover if law is a career you can thrive in.

Your time with us will involve:

• Starting your journey and developing the foundation of skills you need for a successful legal career through our six-year Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme.
• Getting the qualifications and experience you need while being part of a firm that embraces new ideas and fosters progress.
• Completing work-based learning (four days a week) by working in our practice groups.
• Completing rotations across the office to use the knowledge and skills learned from your academic studies.
• Having access to international and client secondment opportunities.
• Being at the forefront of legal innovation, working on high-profile projects that will shape the future of law and business.
• Joining a forward-looking, friendly team while collaborating with colleagues around the world.
• Developing your knowledge and skills through structured learning and development opportunities in our supportive culture.
• Being supported by a strong internal network of supervisors, buddies, and mentors.
• Having a dedicated early careers programme manager and tuition provider skills coach.
• Being part of an international early careers community of talented colleagues.
• Engaging with initiatives beyond your role, including getting involved with our people networks, legal tech, sustainability and pro bono work.
• Enjoying a working environment where your wellbeing is always a priority.
• Emerge from the programme not just as a qualified lawyer, but as a trusted business advisor.

Please note: apprentices joining our Yorkshire (Leeds) office may also have the opportunity to undertake seat rotation(s) in our Sheffield office.

Eligibility

To apply for our Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• At least three A Levels at grade C or above, and five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including Maths and English, or equivalent qualifications.
• Having been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least the last three years (or other eligible residency status).
• Having the right to permanently live and work in the UK for the full duration of the apprenticeship.

What We Look For

• An interest in international law and business.
• A forward-thinking and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Self-motivated by a strong desire to achieve personal and professional goals.
• Enjoyment in collaborating with others while also enjoying independent study.
• A growth mindset to see setbacks as learning opportunities.
• Enjoying working in an ever-changing environment.
• Taking ownership of tasks and thinking critically.
• Being an advocate of apprenticeships as an alternative route into law.

Our Values

• Be Supportive – we are compassionate and inclusive, valuing diversity and acting thoughtfully.
• Be Collaborative – we are proactive, passionate team players investing in our relationships.
• Be Bold – we are fearless and inquisitive, challenging ourselves to think big and find creative new solutions.
• Be Exceptional – we are strategic and driven, exceeding standards and expectations.

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people.

We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people. We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all.