Trainee Solicitor

Weightmans; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Weightmans is offering trainee solicitor roles on the SQE pathway with a September 2028 start. The programme leads to qualification as a solicitor with supported QWE across seats, and a guaranteed SQE1/SQE2 study opportunity with BPP University Law School.

Applications for those pursuing or planning the LPC are welcome, and a Glasgow Traineeship is also available. If successful, you will undertake structured training, mentorship and a robust supervision network as you progress toward

Qualifications

• You can apply if you have completed a qualifying law degree, or a non-law degree with the PGDL (or equivalent conversion).
• Successful candidates will be guaranteed a place to study for SQE1 and SQE2 with a recognised provider.
• The programme includes practical experience and supervised training toward qualification as a solicitor.

Responsibilities

• Undertake the SQE pathway and qualifying work experience (QWE) across seats.
• Participate in structured training, mentorship, and a robust supervision network to support qualification.

Skills

Qualifying law degree

PGDL conversion

SQE pathway knowledge

Education

Qualifying law degree

PGDL completed

Job description

About your new role

These roles are for a September 2029 start. Applications will close at midday on 14 January 2027. We are unable to accept applications after this date.

If you have completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC) there is a possibility to start earlier (this will be discussed if successful).

This application is for those who are looking to complete our Trainee SQE Pathway or are currently studying towards, or have completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC). If you are interested in our Traineeship pathway under the Scottish Law Society at our Glasgow office, you can apply via the following link - Traineeship in Glasgow - Weightmans

Our trainee programmes will provide you with excellent training and experience across seats in different areas of the business, which will include everything which is required for your qualification to solicitor. During this time, you will be given the opportunity to complete a range of different work with a robust support network of supervision and mentoring

About You

SQE Pathway

You can apply to complete our trainee solicitor - SQE pathway programme if you have completed a qualifying law degree, or a non-law degree together with the PGDL (or equivalent conversion course).

Successful candidates will be guaranteed a place to study for SQE1 and SQE2 with BPP University Law School. As we recruit two years in advance, you will have the opportunity to study for SQE1 on a full-time or part-time basis before joining the firm as a trainee solicitor. Once you have gained practical experience within the firm, you will then complete SQE2.

If successful, your journey would typically follow the timeline below:

• September 2028 – Begin studying for SQE1 on a full-time or part-time basis.
• July 2029 – Sit SQE1.
• September 2029 – Join Weightmans as a Trainee Solicitor and commence your qualifying work experience (QWE).
• 2030 – Sit SQE2 after gaining relevant on-the-job experience within the firm.

Please note: this programme is designed for candidates who have not yet started SQE studies. As the SQE pathway outlined above includes sitting SQE2 in 2030, candidates who have already started or completed SQE1 are not eligible to apply.

Training Contract

You can apply to complete our Training contracts | Weightmans if you are currently studying towards, or have completed, the Legal Practice Course (LPC). If you have not yet commenced the LPC, you can become a trainee solicitor by following our trainee solicitor - SQE pathway to qualification.

Why work for us

Come and join our award-winning organisation and be part of a team where people truly matter.

Weightmans is a Leading national law firm, with strong international capabilities.

Weightmans has been recognised as a leading employer for the 19th consecutive year at Britain's Top Employers awards, and ranking top 10 in the list, the firm has also secured top positions in Chambers UK.

Why work for us? Take a look: Work for Weightmans: voted a top employer | Weightmans

This link contains information regarding Culture, Benefits, D&I, Recruitment Agency PSL/Non PSL and Eligibility to work in the UK information.

Work for a firm where people matter – work for Weightmans

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to reach their full potential. Our people-first culture is at the heart of everything we do, making Weightmans a place where you can develop your career and thrive.

Curious about what is it like to work at our firm? Visit our Life at Weightmans page for insights into our employee initiatives, responsible business commitments and much more!