Training contracts and qualifying work experience

Applying your knowledge in practice

Since 1 September 2021, the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) has replaced the old system of qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. Under this new route, the traditional training contract (previously called the “period of recognised training”) has been replaced by Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).
QWE is designed to be more flexible than a traditional training contract. Instead of completing all on-the-job training with a single firm, trainees can now gain experience across up to four different organisations, broadening their exposure to different practice areas and working environments.
The SQE framework also encourages a more integrated approach to training. Typically, candidates sit SQE1 at the start of their QWE and SQE2 towards the end, reflecting the shift from academic knowledge to practical, vocational skills.
Overall, the SQE introduces greater flexibility into the qualification journey, allowing aspiring solicitors to combine practical experience with formal assessments in a way that better reflects the realities of legal practice.

Trainee solicitor salaries can vary widely depending on the type of firm. Those working in criminal law tend to earn the least, while corporate firms usually pay the most. At the top end, US firms in London offer some of the highest salaries in the market, with six-figure pay packages and bonuses once trainees qualify. However, these high salaries are often matched with longer and more demanding working hours.

You can compare trainee and newly qualified (NQ) salaries, as well as average leave allowances, using our Firms Most List. Currently, the firms paying the highest second-year trainee salaries are Davis Polk & Wardwell, Sullivan & Cromwell, and Milbank, all at £65,000.

At qualification level, Gibson Dunn and Paul Weiss lead the table with salaries of £180,000, closely followed by Sullivan & Cromwell at £177,000.

For context, the Law Society of England and Wales recommends a minimum trainee salary of £26,068 in London and £23,122 outside London.

The Equivalent Means route often called the “paralegal shortcut” provides an alternative way to qualify as a solicitor. Instead of completing the traditional LPC and training contract, candidates can qualify by demonstrating that their work experience or recognised learning meets the same standard.

For example, a paralegal working across different departments may record their work and use it as evidence that their experience is equivalent to that of a trainee solicitor during a training contract.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) reviews applications on a case-by-case basis to decide whether an individual’s experience is sufficient to qualify under this route. More detailed guidance is available here.

It’s important to note that Equivalent Means is being phased out, as the SQE becomes the main route to qualification.

Many large corporate law firms offer trainees the chance to go on client secondments. This means spending time working directly within a client’s in-house legal team. These placements are a valuable way to build confidence, develop practical skills, strengthen client relationships, and gain a better understanding of how clients operate and what they need from their lawyers.

Some international firms also provide opportunities for overseas secondments, allowing trainees to work in one of the firm’s offices abroad. This experience not only exposes you to a different legal system but also helps you develop highly transferable skills.

That said, competition for international secondments is often very high. If this is something you’re particularly interested in, it’s a good idea to research which firms offer these opportunities before submitting your training contract applications.

Most law firms recruit their future trainees around two years in advance. This means that if you want to move straight from your studies into the LPC (or SQE prep) and then a training contract, you’ll need to apply early.

For a three-year degree, applications should usually be made in your second year. If you’re on a four-year integrated course, aim to apply in your penultimate year.At most City firms, training contract deadlines fall on or before 31 July each year. However, dates can vary between firms, so it’s always best to check resources like Legal Cheek’s Key Deadlines Calendar or the individual firm’s website.

Be aware that some firms recruit on a rolling basis, reviewing applications and making offers as they come in rather than waiting until the deadline. For this reason, it’s strongly recommended to apply as early as possible to maximise your chances.