Solicitor Apprenticeships

Earn while you learn, gaining valuable experience from day one with no university or Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) fees to pay, on our Solicitor Apprenticeship.

About the Solicitor Apprenticeship

Applications for 2024 are now closed.

We offer comprehensive career development, support and learning experiences across multiple practice groups within our dynamic law firm environment.

Our programme begins with targeted pre-joining events and a comprehensive induction helping to embed you into the firm from day one.

 

On our six-year Solicitor Apprenticeship programme, you will be enrolled onto a law degree in Legal Practice and Skills (LLB) at the University of Law at a location appropriate to your apprenticeship. Following successful completion of your LLB you will sit your Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE). One day per week will be dedicated to your study, with the remainder of your week spent working at CMS.

We will ensure that you become fully immersed into the business, through gaining valuable, practical experience across many of our practice groups as well as providing you with world-class training and development opportunities.

You will have the opportunity to learn and work at the same time on your path to becoming a fully-qualified solicitor.

 

Locations

In 2024 we will have positions available in our London and Sheffield offices.

Eligibility

School/College leavers require 5 GCSEs, including Maths and English, at grade C / 4 or above, plus 3 A Levels at grade C or above (equivalent qualifications may be considered).

Career changers that meet the above criteria are also encouraged to apply.

More information

Application deadlines

Applications for our 2024 programme are closed. To register your interest for future opportunities please click here. 

 

What to expect

Develop the practical legal and professional skills you need to thrive as a future facing solicitor while studying for your qualifications.

Earn while you learn

Ideal for all eligible students, including those who have other commitments, or can’t (or don’t want to) go to university full-time. Earn a salary, work four-days per week plus a day allocated for studies with the University of Law. This is suitable for a diverse range of eligible applicants, accommodating those with prior careers, commitments or preferences against a full-time university experience.

Job security

The programme represents a long-term commitment to your future.

One programme, one outcome

Pass the Solicitor Qualifying Examinations and obtain a law degree, complete your qualifying work experience and qualify as a solicitor.

Paid holidays

All our apprentices get 25 days’ paid holiday every year and are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package.

“The solicitor apprenticeship has allowed me to obtain early exposure to the legal industry and gain a deep understanding of how an international law firm operates. I could not have wished for a better firm to begin my career with. I would encourage anyone with a true interest in the legal sector to consider the apprenticeship scheme.”

Hannah Torpey Solicitor Apprentice

Qualifications and support

You will be supported from the outset by CMS and the University of Law in studying for your professional qualifications. We want you to excel in the outstanding programmes we have put together to prepare you for a successful career as a solicitor.

Salary Information

London starting salary

£25,000

Sheffield starting salary

£21,000

What you'll need to apply

We look for the following in all applicants for our apprenticeship:

Eligibility

All applicants require:
5 GCSEs, including Maths and English, at grade C / 4 or above

A Levels (or equivalent):
3 A Levels at Grade C or above (equivalent qualifications will be considered)

Career Changers

Career changers that meet the above criteria are also encouraged to apply.

Application process

Interested in applying? Here’s an outline of the different stages involved.

Online application form

Online application form

An opportunity for us to start to get to know you, your educational background, work experience and interests and why you are interested in a career with CMS.

Critical thinking test

Critical thinking test

Designed to test your analytical reasoning and logic. Take a practice test here.

Video interview

Video interview

A short 15 minute interview where you will answer a series of pre-recorded questions.

Assessment day

Assessment day

Your assessment day will consist of a case-study, interview, presentation exercise and an opportunity to meet other people from around the firm and learn more about CMS.

Any questions?

Take a look at our dedicated FAQs page