About the Role
Our Client is now inviting trainee solicitor applications to commence in August 2023 and 2024.
Applications will be accepted for both the LPC / Period of Recognised Training and the SQE routes to qualification.
LPC Route – Periods of Recognised Training (PRT)
Periods of Recognised Training, known as training contracts, are offered are on a 2 year fixed term contract. Time to Count, which reduces the duration by taking into account previous relevant experience, is not usually awarded.
Trainee Solicitors can expect to experience three different areas of law. There is a focus on property, family and wills & probate but this will vary depending on business need, individual preference, skills and experience.
Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) Route
SQE training is offered as an apprenticeship through the University of Law. There are two options:
Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship – a 27-month apprenticeship for applicants who have completed a UK Bachelor’s Degree in Law within the last 3 years.
Graduate Apprenticeship with Law Essentials – a 33-month programme for applicants who have completed a UK Bachelor’s Degree in a subject other than law or who completed their law degree more than 3 years ago.
Apprentices will attend seminars or webinars on a weekly day release basis (either remotely or in person, to be confirmed by the University of Law). Our Client funds the apprenticeship study costs and examination fees. Start dates will be linked to the training provider’s courses. The anticipated start dates for this intake are August 2023, February 2024 and August 2024.
SQE apprentices will gain relevant work experience, tailored to the individual. This may be in several areas of law or be within one department throughout.
Trainee Solicitor – Main Responsibilities:
Running a caseload of client matters in accordance with office procedures.
Dealing with matters at all stages, from taking the client’s initial instructions through to archiving, in accordance with office and accounts procedures.
Obtaining and preparing file documentation.
Dealing with client enquiries
Billing files and obtaining monies due to the firm from the clients and other parties.
Providing support to other fee earners, solicitors and partners in the firm.
Undertaking legal research and developing legal knowledge through experience, the Professional Skills Course and other training.
Running legal clinics (sometimes out of hours) at our branch offices and other locations, advising clients or taking referral details as appropriate.
Requirements
Key Skills – Essential
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to work accurately in accordance with the requirements of each team.
Ability to deal with technical details and to express solutions to complex legal issues in a concise and customer-friendly way.
Ability to present and argue a case orally and in writing.
Ability to adapt to changing business needs, often at short notice.
Ability to work under pressure.
Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
Ability to work on own initiative.
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Ability to deal with enquiries in a client-friendly and effective manner.
Literate and numerate.
Excellent written English to produce documents for the clients, court and other parties
Good spoken English to resolve telephone enquiries.
Computer literate
Qualifications
Minimum 2:1 degree
LPC Applicants – LPC to be completed prior to PRT start date
Experience
12 months’ experience as a paralegal or similar level role.
Other
Positive, flexible and ‘can do’ attitude
Ambassador for the firm.
Satisfactory absence record or sound justification for high absenteeism.