Skills

Communication Networking Training Motivation Windows Spring Analytical Thinking

Job Specifications

Take your first real step into a career in commercial law. This Spring Vacation Scheme offers a two-week experience inside a world-leading international law firm, giving you a clear, realistic insight into what life as a trainee solicitor truly involves.

You will sit with a practice team, work on live matters, build your professional skills, and connect with lawyers who operate at the highest level across major global clients and transactions.

This is also the primary pathway to securing a Training Contract with the firm.

Key Criteria

On track for a strong academic profile (2:1+ typically competitive)
Analytical thinking and clear written communication skills
Team collaboration and professional curiosity
Ability to build relationships and ask thoughtful questions
Motivation to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor
Commitment to participating fully on-site in London during the scheme dates

What you’ll do

During the scheme you will:

Spend time embedded within a practice area of your choice
Work directly on live client matters with Associates and Partners
Attend insight sessions covering key practice areas, innovation and pro bono
Participate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion workshops and networking
Complete assessed legal tasks aligned to trainee-level responsibilities
Collaborate with your cohort on a client pitch exercise

You will experience real legal work, not observation from the sidelines.

Training & support

Throughout the scheme you’ll receive:

A dedicated trainee buddy
Day-to-day guidance from a qualified Associate (your principal)
Support from the Early Careers team
Regular interaction with lawyers, networks and interest groups
Social events to build relationships across the firm

You’ll be supported, included and treated like a future colleague.

Your Training Contract opportunity

At the end of the scheme, you will have a guaranteed interview for a Training Contract with senior lawyers.

Performance is evaluated through:

Principal feedback
Assessed work completed during the scheme
Final Training Contract interview

Full feedback is provided throughout the process.

Who can apply

We welcome applications from:

Penultimate-year and final-year undergraduates
Graduates and postgraduates
Law and non-law students from UK or Irish universities

A genuine interest in commercial law is essential. Prior legal experience is not.

Dates & deadlines

Application windows

Winter: 1 Sept 2025 – 1 Oct 2025

Spring & Summer: 1 Sept 2025 – 3 Dec 2025

Programme dates

Spring 2026: 13 April – 24 April

Other seasonal schemes also available.

What you’ll gain

A paid, in-depth legal work experience
Exposure to complex, international matters
A strong network within a global commercial law firm
A Training Contract interview and clear progression potential

Applications are reviewed after the deadline. Early submission strongly advised.