Solicitor Degree Apprenticeship 2026 – London (Level 7)

Solicitor Degree Apprenticeship 2026 – London (Level 7)

Company: Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer

Location: London

Salary: £28,000 per annum + £3,000 sign-on bonus

Start Date: September 2026

Application Deadline: Friday 20 February 2026

Launch your legal career at a top global law firm—debt-free.

Are you ready to become a qualified solicitor without the university tuition fees? Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is recruiting for our 2026 Solicitor Degree Apprenticeship in London.

This is your opportunity to earn a competitive starting salary of £28,000 (plus a £3,000 sign-on bonus) while gaining a fully funded LLB (Hons) and passing the Solicitors Qualifying

Examination (SQE). We are looking for ambitious school leavers to join us in September 2026 for a six-year programme that combines world-class legal training with real responsibility from day one.

Why Apply?

Earn While You Learn: Start on a salary of £28,000 per annum, rising significantly as you progress, plus a £3,000 sign-on bonus to help you get set up.

Fully Funded Qualification: We cover all tuition fees for your law degree (LLB Hons) and SQE exams with BPP University.

World-Class Experience: You will rotate through different Practice Groups in our London office, handling real client work alongside market-leading lawyers.

Structured Training:

Years 1–4: Four 12-month rotations across diverse practice areas.

Years 5–6: You join our Trainee Associate Programme with four 6-month rotations to specialise.

Support Network: You won’t be alone. You will have a dedicated supervisor, a trainee buddy, and access to our Early Careers HR team.

Career Progression: Upon completion, you will be a qualified solicitor with the opportunity to apply for Newly Qualified Associate positions.

What to Expect

During the six-year programme, based in our London office, you will balance four days of hands-on work with one day of dedicated study.

You will work on real matters for high-profile clients, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the legal landscape. Tasks typically include conducting legal research, drafting documents, attending client meetings, and assisting with case management. As you gain experience, your responsibilities will grow, ensuring you are fully prepared for a successful career as a solicitor.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for future lawyers with potential, curiosity, and drive—not just grades. You do not need to have studied Law previously.

Requirements:

A-Levels: On track to achieve a minimum of AAB (or equivalent UCAS points).

GCSEs: 7 GCSEs at grade 6 or above, including Maths and English.

Commitment: A genuine interest in commercial law and the motivation to balance work and study.

Note: We actively consider mitigating circumstances and contextual data that may have impacted your grades.

How to Apply

Applications for the September 2026 intake are open now.

Deadline: Friday 20 February 2026

Please note: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the role may close early if we receive a high volume of quality applications. We strongly recommend applying immediately to secure your chance.