Trainee solicitor

Skills and behaviours

Qualifications and skills 

We are looking for candidates who are on track for, or have achieved, a 2:1 or above at degree level (or the equivalent) in any discipline. We are mindful that circumstances can sometimes prevent individuals from meeting their true potential and so we would encourage you to email us directly if you have mitigating circumstances. We are also looking for you to demonstrate that you have the skills and behaviours which we would expect from our trainees. The transferable skills we value include: teamwork and collaboration, research and analysis, time management, organisation, strong written and oral communication, and self-reflection. 

Candidates applying through our direct training contract route are also required to have passed SQE1 and be available to sit SQE2 in the firm’s next available cohort. If you have not yet sat SQE, you will only be eligible to apply for our vacation scheme.

The Professional SQE 

A unique place to grow: We offer stimulating work in an informative, challenging, and busy environment. Your contribution counts from the year before you join our Professional SQE programme through to the end of your qualifying work experience.

What this will look like… 

During your Professional SQE year, you will prepare for SQE1 and SQE2, as well as study master’s-level modules tailored to Reed Smith and the skills and knowledge required as a trainee. Alongside study, you will undertake paid professional placements. During your time working with us, you’ll rotate through two roles in different business services teams at the firm, one of which may be client-facing. You will also have the advantage of being fully inducted at Reed Smith, building an understanding of our systems and business processes, and establishing a network of contacts throughout the firm before starting your qualifying work experience (QWE). You’ll be fully confident in talking to senior leaders, working with your colleagues, and navigating the law firm environment. This experience will enable you to truly hit the ground running – starting your QWE as an experienced member of the Reed Smith team.

These placements include periods of full-time study leave to ensure you have enough time to prepare for your SQE exams. 

Where will I be based? Our London office, at 1 Blossom Yard, is an exciting and innovative space, allowing trainees to benefit from a range of collaborative workspaces, as well as spaces dedicated to wellbeing and socialising. 

Life as a trainee 

Your trainee induction: Your training and induction programme will start when you join us while studying for the SQE. This will mean that when you start your training contract, you will be ready to hit the ground running. 

Your peers: The first relationships you’ll form at Reed Smith will be with your fellow trainees, who will help you develop and prosper throughout your training contract. As part of the process, you’ll also link up with a buddy – a more experienced trainee who will provide guidance and support to help you through your first six months (and often beyond). In addition, for those conversations about qualification or more advanced topics, we offer mentoring support in each practice group from a junior associate. 

Trainee Academy: In addition to training to introduce you to our practice areas, you will attend ongoing training on the latest updates and developments led by partners and associates. We are also keen to allow you to develop your own coaching and mentoring skills, so we encourage our trainee cohorts to mentor those more junior to them. 
 
Qualifying work experience: While classroom learning is important, your practical legal training and experience are where you really learn how to be a lawyer. During each seat, you will get regular feedback from your supervisor to help you gauge your progress, including a mid-seat and end-of-seat appraisal. 

Salary and benefits 

We offer a competitive salary of £55,000 per annum during your first year, moving to £60,000 per annum in your second year. We also offer a range of flexible benefits, including 25 days of annual holiday, health insurance, discounted gym memberships, a cycle to work scheme, retail discounts, and much more. 

Sponsorship details (if applicable)

We will pay your full course fees for both the PGDL and SQE, plus a maintenance grant of £15,000. In addition, whilst studying the SQE and working on a part-time basis, you will be paid the London Living Wage. 

Reed Smith Alumni Network

Another key benefit of joining Reed Smith is that current and former members of the firm are able to join the Reed Smith Alumni Network. Through this programme, you will get access to this extensive international network, along with support, coaching, and future career opportunities throughout your career.