Trainee Solicitor Review
at A&O Shearman
Graduate Job
Commercial Law
London
Review Submitted: August 2026
Overall Rating
4.9 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of the Role
4.8/5
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Experience & Company Culture
5/5
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Recommendations & Advice
Overview of the Role
Overall, how would you describe your experience at A&O Shearman?
I have had a highly positive experience at A&O Shearman - the culture is friendly and the training has been brilliant.
What are the main responsibilities of the role and which elements of the role do you enjoy the most?
The main responsibilities of the role are communicating with clients, drafting documents and arranging signings. I enjoy speaking directly to clients and preparing base drafts of documents.
To what extent does your role give you the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by your team?
5/5
Trainees are very important for ensuring deals are signed and are heavily involved with the transaction management so I have felt valued once deals have closed.
How does your compensation package - including perks & benefits - fairly remunerate you for the work you do?
5/5
The pay is very competitive and the perks and benefits are highly rewarding.
How well do you feel the role is preparing you for your future career?
5/5
As I am now halfway through my training contract, I feel far more prepared to transition from a trainee to a solicitor.
How would you rate the extent to which you were developing new or existing skills through formal training and your day-to-day role?
5/5
I am constantly developing new skills and learning how to start new tasks.
Experience & Company Culture
How is the support you receive?
5/5
HR are very helpful and ensure everyone feels valued. My trainers have also both been very helpful and supportive of my development.
How is your work-life balance?
4/5
It has been rare for me to work exceptionally late and I have enjoyed being consistently busy but also having personal time out of work.
What is the organisational culture, values and general atmosphere like?
5/5
The atmosphere is highly inclusive and welcoming. I also appreciate the flexibility to work from home two days a week, which is helpful for when things get busier.
How would you rate A&O Shearman initiatives when it comes to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility?
5/5
A&O Shearman is very committed to ED&I and I have enjoyed seeing and sometimes supporting with events for social mobility.
How would you rate A&O Shearman CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives?
5/5
A&O Shearman is very committed to the environment. The firm will shortly be moving to a smaller office to reduce its carbon footprint.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend A&O Shearman to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The firm delivers high quality training and maintains a positive and collaborative atmosphere.
How well did the role match your expectations based on the recruitment process?
5/5
Based on the recruitment process the role has matched my expectations.
When considering the recruitment & onboarding process, have you any specific tips or advice you would give to others applying to A&O Shearman?
I would tell them to think about the transferable skills they've gained from their experiences and reflect on how that could be helpful for a career in law.
