Training Contract
About our Training Contract
Our two-year Training Contract provides aspiring solicitors with the opportunity to build their legal and commercial expertise through hands-on experience across a range of practice areas.
During the programme, trainees complete a series of seat rotations within our key departments, including Corporate and Commercial, Property, Employment, and Litigation, gaining exposure to a diverse range of clients, matters, and sectors.
Through a combination of practical experience, structured training, and close supervision from experienced lawyers, trainees develop the legal knowledge, commercial awareness, and professional skills required to qualify as a solicitor. From day one, trainees are given meaningful responsibility and are encouraged to take an active role in client work within a supportive and collaborative environment.
Our aim is to provide a well-rounded training experience that equips trainees with the confidence, competence, and expertise needed for a successful legal career.
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How To Apply
All applications must be submitted via the application portal on our website. Please do not send applications directly to HR, Partners, or other members of the firm, as we operate an anonymised recruitment process designed to promote fairness, minimise bias, and ensure all candidates are assessed consistently. Following submission, applications will be reviewed by our Recruitment Team, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the process.
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Eligibility Requirements
You are eligible to apply if you:
· Are studying law and are in your final year at university;
· Have already graduated with a law degree;
· Are in the final year of a non-law degree;
· Have already graduated with a non-law degree; or
· Have started an SQE preparation course.
Please note, the SQE is entirely self-funded. The firm does not contribute towards SQE preparation courses, examination fees, or any other associated costs.
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Recruitment Process
The application process will consist of the following:
· Submission of your online application including your CV and Cover Letter;
· A 2 minute video question on a contemporary topic;
· A personality profiling questionnaire;
· An assessment centre Day
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Key Dates
Applications for our Training Contract typically open in February, with successful candidates commencing their training contract in September of the following year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which departments can I sit in during my Training Contract?
Trainees complete four six-month seats across our core practice areas, including Corporate & Commercial, Real Estate, Employment, and Litigation. Seat allocations are made with consideration to both business needs and trainee development.
Can I request specific seats?
Yes. Trainees are invited to indicate their preferred seat rotations, and we will endeavour to accommodate these preferences wherever possible. However, seat allocations cannot be guaranteed and are subject to business requirements and availability.
Is there an opportunity to qualify at the firm?
Our aim is to support trainees throughout their development and, where possible and subject to business needs, offer opportunities for trainees to continue their careers with the firm upon qualification.
Will I receive feedback on my application?
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback to candidates who are unsuccessful at the initial application stages. However, we aim to provide feedback to candidates who reach the assessment centre stage, upon request.
Can I apply again if I am unsuccessful?
Yes. We welcome applications from candidates who have applied previously and encourage individuals to reapply in a future recruitment cycle.
Can I apply if I have not completed a Vacation Scheme with Joelson?
Yes. While our Vacation Scheme is an important route into our trainee recruitment process, we also welcome direct applications for Training Contracts.
Do Joelson fund the SQE?
No. The SQE is entirely self-funded. The firm does not contribute towards SQE preparation courses, examination fees, study materials, resit fees, or any other associated costs.
What we look for in our Trainees
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Attention to Detail
Ability to produce accurate written work and spot inconsistencies or ambiguities.
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Analytical Thinking
Capable of interpreting complex information and applying legal reasoning to real-world scenarios.
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Commercial Awareness
Understanding of current affairs, business trends, and how they impact clients and legal strategy.
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Communication Skills
Clear, confident, and professional in both written and verbal communication.
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Teamwork and Collaboration
Willingness to work with others, share ideas, and contribute to a positive team dynamic.
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Initiative and Curiosity
Proactive in seeking learning opportunities and asking thoughtful questions.
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Resilience and Adaptability
Able to manage competing priorities and respond constructively to feedback.
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Time Management
Organised and able to meet deadlines under pressure.
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Ethical and Responsible Values
Passionate about contributing to Joelson's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and B Corp Commitments.
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Stakeholder Management
The ability to communicate effectively, build strong relationships, and manage stakeholder expectations professionally.
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Innovation
A proactive approach to innovation, constantly looking for ways to improve processes, enhance client service, and add value.
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Self Directed Learning
The drive to take ownership of personal development, actively seeking feedback, learning opportunities, and new challenges.
Day in the Life of a Trainee
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I always receive constructive feedback on my work, and have been given the space to grow and develop my personal style as a trainee solicitor. I have been given a huge amount of exposure to the work of solicitors, whether it be in client-facing situations, in drafting advice notes for clients, or in helping to manage cases. I have also loved the variety of work that we do, which spreads across a large array of commercial and residential matters. Overall, my experience so far has been extremely formative, and I cannot wait to see what my second year as a trainee has in store.
Edward Vickery
Trainee
