Before you apply

Clients expect a lot from their lawyers so, inevitably, we look for a wide range of skills and talents in our Trainee Solicitors and Graduate Solicitor Apprentices.

Applications are made through a short on-line application form with a supporting CV. Your CV is very important and should contain the following details:

  • Candidates must possess a minimum of a 2:1 honors degree (or equivalent).
  • Candidates must possess a minimum of 130 UCAS points (or equivalent) and Maths and English GCSEs grade C or above (or equivalent).
  • All relevant school, further and higher education qualifications, including academic institutions, subject and grades.
  • Your right to work in the UK (for Work Experience only).
  • Both your personal home address and email address.
  • Your relevant work experience / employment.
  • Any other achievements or experience which demonstrate relevant/ transferable skills and expertise.

Lawyers need to be able to focus on the detail while still seeing the bigger picture, including being able to assess the commercial impact and risks involved in any course of action under tight timescales. You will need to demonstrate a strong level of acumen in your experience and during our assessment day.

Just as importantly you’ll need strong communication, team-working and relationship building skills. You’ll be working with lots of different people, meeting clients, getting involved in business development and networking opportunities. We’ll help you hone those skills, but we look for a solid base to build on.

In addition, we expect drive, determination, discipline and resilience – you need all these skills to thrive and develop in a challenging career.

To apply you should complete our short application form and submit your CV.

Your CV is very important. It should be set out clearly and contain the following details:

  • All relevant school, further and higher education qualifications, including academic institutions, subject and grades.
  • Your relevant work experience / employment.
  • Any other achievements or experience which demonstrate relevant/ transferable skills and expertise.

Bear in mind what we are looking for and try to demonstrate your relevant skills and abilities in your CV and application form.

We screen all candidates on the basis of their application form and CV. Shortlisted candidates then follow a selection process which includes a critical thinking assessment and an assessment day, including group and individual exercises and an interview. During the day candidates meet a variety of our people including some of our partners and trainee solicitors and have the opportunity to find out much more about what it’s like to be a Trainee Solicitor or Graduate Apprentice at FSP.

Here are the dates for our 2025 Assessment Days:

  • 21 July 2025
  • 22 July 2025

Decisions are usually made within a week of attending. We aim to offer all candidates who attend feedback on their performance.