Hampshire’s Paris Smith launches new Solicitor Apprentice Programme

Published by

Daniel Face

Claire Merritt, Partner at Paris Smith

Paris Smith is looking to attract a broader range of legal talent with their latest apprenticeship programme, designed for school or college leavers and those considering a career change.

Over the six-year course, aspiring solicitors will commit 20 per cent of the working week to studying for a degree qualification, with the remaining time spent alongside the Paris Smith team.

At the office they will be tasked with both legal and administrative duties, including legal research and drafting, client advice and guidance, and attending meetings – all of which will help to inform their education.

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Claire Merritt, Partner at Paris Smith, said: “We recognise that not everyone has the means to commit to a traditional law degree whilst earning little or no income.

“Our apprenticeship programme will allow aspiring solicitors to learn on the job, whilst also earning a salary and gaining valuable experience in one of the Central South’s leading law firms. This is a win-win for both the apprentice and our firm.”

To be eligible for the Solicitor Apprentice Programme, applicants must have at least five passes at GCSE level, including English and Maths, meaning a minimum of Level 4 or grade C. They must also have achieved at least 120 points in their A levels at a minimum of grade B, or an equivalent qualification.

Applications close on Thursday 31 August.

Daniel Face

Born and raised in Berkshire, Dan fell into journalism after completing his bachelor’s degree in English at UCL. Writing for The Business Magazine and local Biz News sites has given him the opportunity to chat with all manner of small business owners and share their success stories with a wider audience. Outside of work, Dan enjoys live music, board games and quiz shows, and is making a slow but persistent effort to learn Spanish.