What we look for

The qualities we look for in our trainees include common sense, a sharp intellect, commercial awareness, strong interpersonal skills, independent thought and a good sense of humour.

To thrive in our environment and take full advantage of the opportunities it offers, you will need enthusiasm, commitment, a willingness to accept responsibility and the ability to get on well with others.

Our work is intellectually demanding, so the minimum standard we look for is three very strong grades at A-level (or equivalent) and a first degree of a good 2:1 standard or better. We also require a first-class reference from a tutor or another person who knows you and your work or, if more appropriate, the name of a professional referee.

We look for people from a range of universities: it is the quality of candidates, not the university they come from, which is important to us. In fact, almost 70 universities are represented among our lawyers.

A law degree is not essential - about half of our trainees have not studied law at university. Between them, they have studied subjects such as history, politics, philosophy, economics, medicine, mathematics, geography, political science, international relations, modern languages and psychology.

Proficiency in a foreign language is always a bonus but not essential.