How many trainee solicitors do you recruit each year?
We recruit between 7 to 9 trainees for each year’s intake.
Do you have minimum grade requirements?
No, there are no minimum grade requirements to apply for a training contract with us.
However, Kingsley Napley aims to recruit the most talented individuals and we do recognise that Law is an academic and intellectual subject. Whilst we place the most ‘weight’ (and allocated marking) on the questions and your answers included on the application form, we do also take into consideration work experience and grades. We will look at the application in full, considering all factors, as opposed to focusing on just one specific area.
What happens if I had/have mitigating circumstances during my studies?
We recognise that mitigating circumstances can occur during your academic studies, so please make a note of these within your application form if applicable. We will take these into account when reviewing your application.
Do you sponsor international applicants?
Yes, we do accept applications from international candidates, and will support visa sponsorships where required, providing you are eligible to work within the UK.
What qualifications do I need to be eligible for the training contract?
We accept applications from candidates who are currently studying, or have completed, a degree. You must either be in your penultimate year of a law degree, or final year of a non-law degree in order to apply for a training contract.
If you are successful in obtaining a training contract with us and you have completed a non-law degree, we will discuss qualification pathway options with you.
Do you follow the SQE or LPC routes to qualification for trainees?
All of our trainees follow the SQE route, unless having already completed the LPC independently.
What level of funding/financial support to you offer?
We provide full funding of the SQE prep courses and assessments for trainees undertaking the SQE route to qualification. We also currently provide a maintenance grant of £7000 for those completing the SQE, and £10,000 for trainees who have completed the LPC.
What is the application process?
The exact timeline is still to be confirmed. Assessments for the 2027 intake recruitment process will take place in May and June of 2025. Details will follow shortly
How can I apply?
Please apply via our online portal, Apply4Law through this link.
When can I apply?
Applications for the 2027 trainee intake will close at midnight on 14th April 2025.
When do you look at applications?
We review all applications once the deadline has closed. All applications are reviewed in the same way regardless of the submission date, so please do take your time to ensure your application is accurate and completed to the highest quality.
Do you give preferential treatment to internal applications?
No, the application and recruitment process is exactly the same and consistent for both internal and external applicants.
Do I need to have completed work experience with the firm to apply?
Not at all.
However please do include any relevant work experience on your application form – including work experience at Kingsley Napley or other firms.
Do you offer reasonable adjustments?
Yes, absolutely.
When submitting your application, please include any reasonable adjustments you will require during the process and we will try to accommodate this. We can provide the application form in an alternative format, allow additional time should you be asked to complete a case study and/or provide a case study in an alternative format. We can also offer use of the KN technology and equipment and virtual/in-person interviews as required. If you require something alternative – please just speak to the recruitment team who will be happy to help.
What is the structure of the training contract and how many practice areas can I train in?
Training contracts at KN consist of a four-seat structure, with each seat running for a 6 month period. During your four seat rotations you will experience working in an array of practice areas alongside different partners/ fee earners with a variety of cases, clients and working styles. The experience will be hugely beneficial to your learning and development as a future lawyer.
What is the process for selecting practice areas to work in?
Ahead of your training contract commencing, you will be given the opportunity to submit your preferences for your top seat choices. We do our very best to allocate each preference, however we cannot guarantee that these are the seats you will be allocated.
Do I need to have prior legal work experience?
No, we accept applications from anyone, regardless of prior legal experience. Many of our trainees have been career changers, or had no prior legal work experience when obtaining their training contract with us.
Are there opportunities to get involved in pro bono work?
Yes, we are committed to being a responsible member of the legal profession and understand the importance of contributing to the wider community. There are many opportunities to take part in pro bono work and this is widely encouraged across the firm.
Are there opportunities to partake in secondments?
Yes, but secondments opportunities are always based on business need and availability, it’s not a rotation we can guarantee.
How many trainees do you retain for qualified roles each year?
This varies year by year. In 2023, all of our trainees were offered NQ roles within the firm, and we retained 89% of trainees.
If successful when would I join the firm as a trainee?
We recruit two years in advance, so if you are offered a role in summer 2025, you will begin with us as a trainee in September 2027.