Solicitor Apprenticeships

Our Solicitor Apprenticeship is designed to give talented young people the opportunity to realise their potential and build a career in law.

With world-class training, ongoing development and financial support, you’ll have everything you need to develop your skills and start building a career in commercial law.

If you’re interested in becoming a solicitor but don’t see university as the right route for you, our Solicitor Apprenticeship offers an alternative way to get started. The programme is open to Year 13 students (or equivalent) and school leavers without a degree, regardless of socio-economic background.

The Linklaters Solicitor Apprenticeship: The Future Starts Now

Opportunity Type

Application Process

Online Application Form

Complete a short online form covering your basic information, academics, work experience and extra-curricular activities. It should take no longer than 60 minutes to complete.

The Linklaters Online Assessment

Next, you’ll take the Linklaters Online Assessment, which is based on our success framework. You’ll have five days from submitting your written application to complete it.

Across three modules, you’ll gain a realistic insight into working at Linklaters. The assessment is untimed but should take around one hour to complete, and no preparation is required. Once submitted, you’ll receive a personalised feedback report highlighting your strengths and an area for development.

Video Interview and Written Assessment

If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to a video interview and asked to complete a written exercise. This stage will explore your understanding of Linklaters, your motivation for joining us, the skills you would bring to the role and your ability to communicate effectively.

Assessment Centre

If you’re successful at the video interview stage, you’ll be invited to an in-person Assessment Centre at our London office. You’ll complete a range of tasks, including a Partner interview, group exercise and written activity. We’ll provide detailed feedback to everyone who attends the Assessment Centre.

We’ll share more information about each stage of the application process as you progress. If you have any questions or require reasonable adjustments, please contact our Early Careers team at earlycareersuk@linklaters.com

The Details

Testimonial

"We are excited to be launching the fifth year of our Solicitor Apprenticeship programme. We are passionate about increasing access to the legal profession to students of all backgrounds and this is a fantastic way to provide new opportunities for talented young people across the UK. After the success of our first four intakes, we can’t wait to welcome a new cohort with their ideas and energy!"

Rebecca McGregor

Early Careers Partner

FAQs

What is the Linklaters Solicitor Apprenticeship?

The Linklaters Solicitor Apprenticeship is a six-year programme combining university study with hands-on experience in our London office. You’ll work towards your qualification while developing your legal knowledge, professional skills and experience across different areas of commercial law.

Who can apply for the Linklaters Solicitor Apprenticeship?

Our Solicitor Apprenticeship is aimed at Year 13 students (or equivalent) and school leavers without a degree who are interested in building a career in commercial law. The programme is open to applicants regardless of socio-economic background.

Can I become a solicitor without going to university full-time?

Yes. Our Solicitor Apprenticeship offers an alternative route to becoming a solicitor without following the traditional full-time university path. You’ll spend one day a week studying towards your degree and the rest of the week gaining practical experience at Linklaters.

What support will I receive during the Solicitor Apprenticeship?

You’ll have support throughout the six-year programme. In each practice area, a Principal will support your learning and development, while mentors and buddies will be there to offer guidance. You’ll also have access to Linklaters’ legal training and professional development opportunities.

Will I be paid during the Linklaters Solicitor Apprenticeship?

Yes. You’ll earn a starting salary of £32,000, which increases annually, as well as a £3,000 sign-on bonus. You’ll also receive a range of benefits, including 27 days’ annual leave plus birthday leave, health insurance and access to health and wellbeing resources.

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