At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a supportive team and gain hands-on experience in law with major clients.
- Company: Trethowans, an award-winning law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, bonus scheme, pension, and income protection.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with real responsibilities and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Open to law and non-law graduates with potential and drive.
- Other info: Enjoy social events and a tight-knit community while you learn.
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
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal field. Attend events, join law societies, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current Trainees or Solicitors at Trethowans. A friendly chat can open doors!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your personality! When you get the chance for an interview or informal chat, let your passion for law shine through. Trethowans values character just as much as academic achievement, so be yourself and share your aspirations.
✨Tip Number 3
Research, research, research! Familiarise yourself with Trethowans’ culture, values, and recent cases. This will not only help you in interviews but also show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on updates for the next intake – being proactive shows your commitment and enthusiasm for joining Trethowans.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Solicitors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see who you are beyond your grades. Share your passions and what drives you – it helps us understand if you’ll fit into our supportive team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically for Trethowans. Highlight experiences that align with our values and the qualities we seek in Trainee Solicitors. A personalised touch goes a long way!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of what you want to say. Avoid fluff – we’re looking for substance!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the process right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Trethowans Solicitors
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your legal knowledge and understand the key areas of law relevant to the firm. Familiarise yourself with Trethowans' practice areas and recent cases they've handled. This shows you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Show Your Personality
Trethowans values a supportive team culture, so let your personality shine through. Be authentic and share experiences that highlight your teamwork and commitment. They want to see how you fit into their tight-knit environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the training programme and the firm's culture. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if Trethowans is the right fit for you. Think about what you want to learn during your training.
✨Demonstrate Your Drive
Highlight your motivation and ambition during the interview. Share examples of how you've overcome challenges or pursued your goals. Trethowans is looking for candidates who are eager to grow and contribute to the firm’s success.