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- Tasks: Join us as a Trainee Solicitor, working on exciting cases and gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Trethowans is an award-winning law firm with big clients and a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a bonus scheme, pension, and social events with fellow trainees.
- Why this job: This role offers a blend of professional growth, teamwork, and a fun work environment.
- Qualifications: We welcome applications from law students and those with non-law backgrounds who show potential.
- Other info: Trainees often secure their contracts two years in advance, providing peace of mind for future studies.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Trainee Solicitors at Trethowans get the best of both worlds: a firm with big clients and major ambitions, but also a tight-knit, supportive team who value each new staff member from day one. Every year, we look for bright, talented individuals to join our award-winning firm as Trainee Solicitors. On average, we recruit 3 to 5 Trainees per year, and we warmly invite applications from those who have studied law, as well as those who have a non-law background.
Our process means we generally recruit Trainees two years before they start with us, which means candidates have the comfort of knowing they have secured a training contract before they commit to further post-graduate studies.
What are we looking for? We are not just looking for academic achievement when we recruit Trainees. Identifying candidates who have potential, who have the characteristics and drive we are looking for, and who are able to demonstrate the qualities we seek is of equal importance to us. Our culture is something we are very proud of as a Firm, and so we are looking for people who share similar values and aspirations as us. Our aim is to recruit Trainees who, upon qualification, wish to continue their career with Trethowans.
Training contracts at Trethowans Our two-year training programme is usually divided into four six-month ‘seats’ with different teams. These will ideally take place in at least two of our five offices in Bournemouth, Poole, Salisbury, Southampton and Winchester. The seats available will depend on our growth objectives and business requirements, but we will always talk to you and try to accommodate your preferences wherever possible. Throughout the programme, you will work closely with your allocated supervisor to make sure you are getting the most from your training. We aim to give every Trainee a stimulating and challenging experience with plenty of direct client contact. From day one, you will play an active and important role in your team. We will expect hard work, enthusiasm and commitment – and, in return, we will offer lots of support and encouragement.
When you join us, we strive to develop and advance your career from the outset. In fact, many of our Partners, Team Leaders and Solicitors were once Trainees at the firm. Our aim is to ensure that Trainees learn to apply the knowledge they have already gained academically on a practical basis. You will be challenged and given responsibility, but also have plenty of opportunities to have fun too. We hold various social events and activities throughout the year and our trainees often meet up as a group – with their own budget allocated to be able to socialise together.
As a trainee, you will also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including 25 days of holiday, a bonus scheme, pension, income protection, and many other benefits.
Ranked in The Legal 500 Future Lawyers student guide to the legal profession Trethowans is top ranked in four categories in The Legal 500 Future Lawyers student guide, out of 110 top UK law firms:
- Top 5 UK law firm for ‘Confidence of being kept on’
- Top 10 UK law firm for ‘Overall job satisfaction’
- Top 10 UK law firm for ‘Job Satisfaction’
- Top 20 UK law firm for ‘Sustainability’
Application Process Applications are now closed for our 2026/27 intake. The application date for 2028 intake applications will be confirmed at a later date, watch this page for updates. For further information about Trethowans, including some helpful FAQs, please download the brochure.
Trainee Solicitors employer: Trethowans Solicitors
Contact Detail:
Trethowans Solicitors Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Solicitors
✨Tip Number 1
Research Trethowans thoroughly to understand their values and culture. This will help you align your personal aspirations with the firm’s goals, making it easier to demonstrate your fit during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current and former Trainees at Trethowans. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and what the firm looks for in candidates, giving you an edge in your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage in relevant extracurricular activities or internships that showcase your commitment to a legal career. Highlighting these experiences can demonstrate your drive and potential to succeed as a Trainee Solicitor.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions and scenarios related to teamwork and client interaction. Since Trethowans values collaboration, showing your ability to work well in a team will be crucial.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Solicitors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Firm's Values: Before applying, take some time to understand Trethowans' culture and values. Highlight how your personal values align with theirs in your application to show that you are a good fit for their team.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Trainee Solicitor position. Emphasise any relevant legal experience, skills, and academic achievements, but also include extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment and teamwork.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the role but also explain why you want to work at Trethowans specifically. Discuss your motivations for pursuing a career in law and how you can contribute to the firm’s success.
Prepare for Potential Interviews: While this step comes after your application, it's important to prepare for interviews by researching common questions and formulating thoughtful responses. Be ready to discuss your experiences and how they relate to the qualities Trethowans seeks in their Trainees.
How to prepare for a job interview at Trethowans Solicitors
✨Show Your Passion for Law
Make sure to express your genuine interest in the legal field during the interview. Discuss any relevant experiences, whether academic or practical, that have shaped your desire to pursue a career as a solicitor.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since Trethowans values a supportive team culture, be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight your ability to collaborate and contribute positively to group dynamics.
✨Align with Their Values
Research Trethowans' values and culture before the interview. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, showcasing your commitment to their mission and your potential fit within the firm.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare insightful questions about the training programme, team dynamics, or opportunities for growth within the firm to demonstrate your enthusiasm and engagement.
