Frequently Asked Questions


Applying

Can I apply if I haven't studied law?
Yes. We welcome applications from non-law students.
Can I apply if I do not fall into either category of penultimate year law student or final year non law student?
Yes, we welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
My grades fall short of your minimum academic requirements, but I have genuine mitigating circumstances - what should I do?
We are happy to consider your application, but please do let us know about the mitigating circumstances - you can contact our HR team at anytime to discuss in confidence.
Do you have any preference as to where I attained my degree?
We consider applications on individual merit, not based on the academic institution attended.
What happens after I submit my application?
You will be sent a confirmation e-mail or letter to notify you that your application has been received. We will make applicants aware of the outcome of their application shortly after the deadline. Be assured that we will do our best not to keep you waiting unnecessarily.
Do you offer work placements or vacation schemes?
We do not currently offer work placements or a formal vacation scheme.

The Training Contract

Do trainees have a choice where they are geographically located?
Our trainees may be required to spend time at any of our office locations. We give consideration to personal circumstances, however all trainees need to be aware they could be required to travel to any office.
Do trainees have a choice of where they sit?
Before you move into each of your four seats, you can express a preference as to which practice area you wish to undertake at that time. We take these preferences into account to ensure where possible each trainee spends time in the seats they are most interested in. We have a duty to ensure that you receive a wide breadth of experience in both contentious and non contentious seats.
How many trainees do you retain?
We aim to retain all our trainees depending on their performance and the need of the business at qualification time. We recruit our trainees looking at the long term bigger picture.
Is there an active social life?
Birketts has an extremely active social committee with events throughout the year, helping you to get to know everyone in the firm. Highlights of the year are the annual quiz and sports day as well at the Christmas Ball. Birketts also has a number of successful sports teams including football, cricket and netball.

LPC

Do you provide sponsorship for LPC?
Yes - We provide full sponsorship of the LPC.
We currently do not provide funding for the GDL.
What electives should I take at LPC?
We do not suggest electives. What we do advise is for you to consider the work Birketts does and consider your strengths and areas of interest. The most important thing is that you pass your LPC and enjoy it.
Do you accept part time study contracts?
Yes we do. We have had trainees working 4 days a week, while studying their LPC on the 5th day.

Salary and benefits

How much will I earn during my two years as a trainee?
The current salary for first year trainees is £20,500 a year.  The current salary for second year trainees is £21,500 a year.

What are the benefits?
Our benefits are currently as follows:

  • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Income protection
  • Life Assurance
  • Childcare vouchers
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Subsidised gym membership
  • Profit related bonus
  • Interest free season ticket loan
  • Discounted legal services
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