Creating an inclusive and diverse workplace is an essential part of who we are. Our apprenticeship programmes have made law more accessible by offering alternative routes to qualification.
If you’re enthusiastic about starting a career in law but don’t want to go to university and want to get into the workplace sooner, then this could be the programme for you.
Our programme allows you to qualify as a solicitor by completing a Level 4 paralegal and Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship over a period of seven years. This is the same time it would take you to qualify through the traditional route.
You will begin by studying for your Level 4 paralegal apprenticeship whilst simultaneously working and gaining practical skills of how to become a successful qualified solicitor in a supportive and collaborative law firm. The apprenticeship allows you to put into practice the theoretical knowledge you learn, right away.
Following this route you will build the skills you will need as a solicitor and be able to enjoy the practical application of your professional qualification, enabling you to build a strong foundation for your future career. Our apprenticeship programmes are designed so all our newly qualified solicitors, regardless of the route they qualify into, are equipped to work with their clients and colleagues in a creative, collaborative and commercial way which paves the way for them to thrive in their future careers.
Both the apprenticeship and any qualifications associated with the apprenticeship, including the SQE will be fully funded by Michelmores. This apprenticeship is offered in our Exeter or Bristol offices.
During the first two years of your apprenticeship, you will complete the Level 4 paralegal apprenticeship, after which those with the ability and desire to continue with the Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship (you will jump a year by completing the paralegal apprenticeship) will have the opportunity to do so and achieve a law degree and the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) as part of your qualification.
Throughout your apprenticeship you will spend four days a week working closely with qualified lawyers and other professionals in a team, and have one day to study at the University of Law. You will spend time in several of our business support and legal departments, providing you with a breadth and depth of experience.
We want all our apprentices to complete the paralegal apprenticeship programme before committing to the solicitor programme. Working as a paralegal apprentice for two years gives you the opportunity to decide if a career in law is right for you. For whatever reason, if you decide that it’s not the right thing for you then you will still walk away with a legal qualification if you complete the paralegal programme.
Applications for our Legal Apprenticeship are now live, you can apply here.
Key application dates and stages of the recruitment process:
Michelmores School Leaver Apprenticeship Insight Event – Tuesday 26 November 2024. Sign up here.
For any further questions please email early.careers@michelmores.com.
