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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing cases for court and gain hands-on experience from day one.
- Company: Join a dynamic law firm with a national reputation for legal excellence.
- Benefits: Structured training, supportive team, and real client engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in criminal law while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Completion of LPC or SQE, strong academic record, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for growth and collaboration in a welcoming environment.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Are you ready to take the next step in your legal career with a dynamic forward-thinking law firm that offers real experience and support from accomplished Solicitors? If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding training contract in a modern environment based in the heart of Teesside, look no further.
About Us
At Watson Woodhouse and Macks Solicitors, we pride ourselves on being a strong ambitious firm with a national reputation for legal excellence. Recognised as standout specialist advisors across key legal sectors, we combine top-tier legal work with a genuine focus on people, our clients, and our team. We are committed to developing the next generation of legal talent, and our trainees are at the very heart of our long-term vision. When you begin your training contract with us, you're not just joining a firm; you're starting your future.
Why Choose Us
- Work alongside experienced and respected legal professionals
- Gain hands-on experience from day one
- Participate in structured firm-wide training sessions
- Engage directly with a broad range of clients
- Become part of a welcoming, collaborative, and driven team
The Role - Crime Department
As a Trainee Solicitor in our Crime Department, you will be immersed in a fast-paced and impactful area of law. You will:
- Assist in preparing cases for court including magistrates, youth, and crown court
- Attend police stations and shadow qualified solicitors
- Draft legal documents and client correspondence
- Support firm advocacy preparation and case strategy discussions
- Gain exposure to complex and varied criminal matters
This seat offers an exceptional foundation in criminal law and an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of clients.
Who We're Looking For
We're seeking passionate, driven, and proactive individuals who are ready to thrive in a challenging legal environment. You'll need to demonstrate:
- Completion of the LPC or SQE
- A strong academic record
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A genuine interest in criminal law
- A collaborative mindset and eagerness to learn
Start Your Journey with Us
If you're ready to train with a firm that values your potential, supports your growth, and challenges you to be your best, we want to hear from you.
How to Apply
If you aspire to join us in our next 2026 intake, we are eager to hear from you. We invite applications from both LPC and SQE graduates. For those shortlisted to the next stage of our assessment process, we will be in touch to schedule an interview with us in March 2026. We are keen to learn more about you during this process, and you will have ample opportunities to engage with our Talent Team and other professionals across the firm.
Application Timeline
- Jan 2026: Application window opens
- End of Feb 2026: Application window closes
- March 2026: Shortlisted candidates invited to first stage interview (date to be confirmed)
- Final stage interviews with our Head of Department and Talent Team for successful candidates (date to be confirmed)
- Offers made to join us in TBC 2026
Key Skills
- Legal Drafting
- Litigation
- Legal Counsel
- Mediation Experience
- Legal Research
Employment Type: Full Time
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1
Trainee Solicitor - Crime (Training Contract) employer: Watson Woodhouse & Macks Solicitors
Contact Detail:
Watson Woodhouse & Macks Solicitors Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Solicitor - Crime (Training Contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with legal professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know in the industry, the better your chances of landing that trainee solicitor role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its culture. Understand their values and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission. Show them you're not just another candidate, but someone who truly fits into their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your legal skills! Whether it's drafting documents or discussing case strategies, make sure you're up to speed. You want to impress them with your knowledge and readiness to jump into the fast-paced world of criminal law.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our dynamic team at Watson Woodhouse and Macks Solicitors.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Solicitor - Crime (Training Contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Criminal Law: Make sure to highlight your genuine interest in criminal law throughout your application. We want to see that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're excited about making a difference in this field.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are serious about joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of what you want to say. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our Talent Team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Watson Woodhouse & Macks Solicitors
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on key concepts and recent developments in criminal law. Being able to discuss relevant cases or legislation during your interview will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Trainee Solicitor, strong communication is crucial. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Mindset
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to work well in a team. Discuss any group projects or experiences where you contributed to a collective goal, as this aligns with the firm's collaborative culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the firm and the role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you. Think about asking about training opportunities or the types of cases you might work on.
