Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeships
Earn while you learn, gaining valuable experience from day one with no university or Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) fees to pay, on our Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship.
Earn while you learn, gaining valuable experience from day one with no university or Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) fees to pay, on our Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship.
We offer comprehensive career development, support and learning experiences across multiple practice groups within our dynamic law firm environment.
Our programme begin with targeted pre-joining events and a comprehensive induction helping to embed you into the firm from day one.
On the Graduate Apprenticeship programme, lasting a minimum of 36 months, you will complete your SQE at the University of Law. One day per week will be dedicated to your study, with the remainder of your week spent working at CMS.
We will ensure that you become fully immersed into the business, through gaining valuable, practical experience across many of our practice groups as well as providing you with world-class training and development opportunities.
You will have the opportunity to learn and work at the same time on your path to becoming a fully-qualified solicitor
Develop the practical legal and professional skills you need to thrive as a future facing solicitor while studying for your qualifications.
Ideal for all eligible students, including those who have other commitments, or can’t (or don’t want to) go to university full-time. Earn a salary, work four-days per week plus a day allocated for studies with the University of Law. This is suitable for a diverse range of eligible applicants, accommodating those with prior careers, commitments or preferences against a full-time university experience.
The programme represents a long-term commitment to your future.
Pass the Solicitor Qualifying Examinations, complete your qualifying work experience and qualify as a solicitor.
All our apprentices get 25 days’ paid holiday every year and are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package.
You will be supported from the outset by CMS and the University of Law in studying for your professional qualifications. We want you to excel in the outstanding programmes we have put together to prepare you for a successful career as a solicitor.
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London starting salary |
£36,500 |
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Bristol starting salary |
£31,000 |
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Manchester and Sheffield starting salary |
£28,000 |
We look for the following in all applicants for our apprenticeship:
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Essentials |
To be eligible you must comply with the requirements of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). UK bachelor’s degree at 2.2 or above or equivalent (please contact us to discuss acceptable equivalent qualifications). GCSE English and Maths at Level C/4 or above or equivalent. Please note you may need to undertake Functional Skills Maths & English assessments if you did not sit GCSE Maths & English, or do not hold the minimum grades. (Please contact us to discuss acceptable equivalent qualifications) |
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Eligibility |
Hold a non-law degree, but have not undertaken the PGDL, GDL, LPC or SQE. If you're a non-law student going into, or in, your final year, you are also eligible to apply. |
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Career changers |
Career changers that meet the above criteria for either programme are also encouraged to apply |
Interested in applying? Here’s an outline of the different stages involved.
An opportunity for us to start to get to know you, your educational background, work experience and interests and why you are interested in a career with CMS.
Designed to test your analytical reasoning and logic. Take a practice test here.
A short 15 minute interview where you will answer a series of pre-recorded questions.
Your assessment day will consist of a case-study, interview, presentation exercise and an opportunity to meet other people from around the firm and learn more about CMS.
Take a look at our dedicated FAQs page