Shoosmiths launches trainee solicitor programme in Northern Ireland

UK law firm Shoosmiths has launched its first trainee solicitor programme in Northern Ireland offering the opportunity for aspiring individuals to work in the firm’s Belfast location.

Shoosmiths’ award winning trainee solicitor programme currently sees graduates join the firm across nine office locations. From September 2021 this will now include Belfast with successful applicants set to qualify as a solicitor in Northern Ireland in 2023.

Due to the September 2021 start date, for this initial recruitment round Shoosmiths are inviting applications only from candidates who have already completed the Institute of Professional Legal Studies entrance exam.

Shoosmiths has established an excellent reputation as one of the leading firms for graduate legal training in the UK with nominations and shortlistings as Best Recruiter at the LawCareers.Net Training and Recruitment Awards, the HR in Law Awards and best Social Media and Best Company Culture at the AllAboutLaw Awards.

Since its opening, the Belfast office has established teams across Real Estate, Corporate, Litigation Services, Banking and Commercial, each continuing to grow at a rapid rate. Talent recruitment and retention through a trainee programme is a key driver for the firm’s continuing expansion and success.

The firm wants to recruit the very best talent, and while it is true that law requires a high level of intellect, academics aren’t the only measure of success. In future recruitment rounds Shoosmiths will look for candidates with strengths in other areas too, adopting a minimum academic criteria of CCC at 'A' level and a degree in any subject (or equivalents).

Gillian Crotty, a partner in the firm’s Belfast office, said:

“Shoosmiths has an enviable track record of trainees being offered and accepting NQ positions with the firm. This initial step is just the start of opening doors to a career in law for ambitious and talented individuals.  We hope to expand the scheme and increase the number of trainees in the coming years.”

The online application form for a training contract in Belfast, commencing in September 2021 can be found here. Deadline for applications is 5 May 2021.  For more information, please contact Shoosmiths graduate recruitment team at [email protected]