Training Contract/Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship - September 2028 & 2029 - Blacks Solicitors

Application deadline: 31 January 2025.

Organic growth is important to Blacks Solicitors and we aim to recruit talented Trainee Solicitors and retain them on qualification.

Blacks typically recruit three Trainees each year, with contracts commencing on 1 September every year.

Our Trainees spend two years working in four different areas of law and receive a high level of training in each discipline, whilst experiencing considerable client contact.

Over recent years we have retained a significant proportion of Blacks’ Trainee intake, with a number of the Firm’s current partners originally having joined the firm as Trainee Solicitors! 

What’s it like to be a Trainee at Blacks?

Here is what some of our recent Trainees and NQs have to say:

“The best thing about training at Blacks is the exposure to varied work and the client contact you get, working closely with business owners to make a recognisable difference. You will be expected to take responsibility of matters as though they were your own and manage client expectations. The experience as a Trainee really helps to set you up for life as an NQ and become a trusted adviser. I also find Blacks a very friendly place to work, with a great social atmosphere.”

“Blacks have provided me with a friendly and supportive working environment whilst being a Trainee. I have been able to gain real hands-on experience in dealing with clients and their files and have been given ample responsibilities to prepare me for qualification. Blacks have also been supportive in allowing me to develop my wider professional attributes, such as my networking and presentation skills, as trainees are often encouraged to attend various business development events.”

How do I apply?

Blacks are currently recruiting for Training Contracts with start dates of September 2028 and September 2029.

If you would like to apply for a Training Contract, please send your CV together with a covering letter (explaining why you want to work for Blacks, and what you will bring to the Firm) via email by 31 January 2025.

To be shortlisted as a candidate for Blacks’ Trainee Programme we require you to have the following experience and skills:

• A strong academic record and have achieved 340 UCAS points (AAB) or the Tariff equivalent from your best three A-Levels, together with a strong 2:1. If you have undertaken the GDL or LPC we require you to have achieved a Commendation or above
• Attention to detail and ability to work to high standards
• Ability to prioritise and work to tight deadlines
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic
• Ability to communicate effectively
• A common sense approach
• Enthusiastic and have ability to use initiative
• An outgoing personality (a sense of humour is essential)

Alternatively for more information about Blacks’ Training Contracts please contact Tom Moyes (Training Partner), or Ruth King (Head of HR), via email or call today on 0113 207 000

Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship route - same deadline

These take 2.5 years to complete and are for people who are educated to degree level, and ideally have a PDGL.

Over the course of the Apprenticeship programme you will:

• Experience life in a variety of different teams
• Gain valuable experience in an award-winning law firm
• Be paid as you learn