Linklaters launches solicitor apprenticeships programme

From September 2023, magic circle firm Linklaters LLP will take up to six solicitor apprentices in its London headquarters. Linklaters is one of several firms in the City to embrace solicitor apprenticeships as an alternative pathway to the traditional qualification route.  

Apprentices at Linklaters will study for 20% of their time for the first four years, before joining the trainee solicitor cohort for the final two years of the programme. To qualify as solicitors, the apprentices must also complete the Solicitors Qualifying Exam during the last two years.  

Speaking to The Lawyer, Paul Lewis, firmwide managing partner at Linklaters, said: “We are committed to being home to the very best talent, regardless of background." 

“The traditional route to a career in law can be out of reach of many talented students from low socio-economic backgrounds. Through our new solicitor apprenticeship programme, we will facilitate entry to the legal profession – opening access to talented and highly committed students who otherwise might never have had that opportunity. I’m looking forward to welcoming our first solicitor apprentices into the firm next year and to seeing them thrive in their careers.” 

Interested in the apprenticeship pathway? Read our Law Apprenticeships Guide.