Space to
ignite
your career

Space to
ignite
your career

For ambitious people kick-starting careers, there’s no better place than Howard Kennedy

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I am looking forward to building my experience across different departments and getting involved in a wide range of interesting work. 

Catherine Berry, Trainee Solicitor 2026

 

REWARDING WORK, REAL RESPONSIBILITY AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE AN IMPACT FROM DAY ONE.

 

We offer a number of training contracts very year to talented individuals who bring different perspectives and lived experience to our firm. This helps strengthen how we work together, support collaboration across the firm and underpins the culture we are proud of. 

From day one as a trainee, you'll work directly with clients, developing real expertise and gaining experience across our specialisms. You'll contribute to high-quality work, build confidence quickly and begin to understand how we deliver outcomes that matter to our clients.

You'll work in a collaborative and supportive environment where you are encouraged to challenge yourself, take on responsibility and grow your capability. Alongside client work, you'll contribute to pro bono and charitable initiatives to broaden your perspective. 

we also offer a regular calendar of wellbeing activities, charitable and social events as part of our commitment to living our values. 

 

 

 

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applying for a training contract?

Applications for training contracts are open later this year.

Blue dress coffee.

Q&A with our trainees

Our current trainees answer some of the most frequently received applicant questions from how to get involved in business development to work-life balance.

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Meet our first-year trainees

Our trainees quickly embed themselves in the firm, getting to know our specialisms and understanding the commercial aspects of working in a law firm. Click below to read their impressions and top tips as they settle into life at Howard Kennedy. Our 2026 cohort: 

Meet our second-year trainees

Our trainees quickly embed themselves in the firm, depending their experience, taking on greater responsibility and gaining confidence in delivering work that creates real value. Click below to read our second-year trainees' impressions and top tips as they have settled into life at Howard Kennedy. Our 2025 cohort: 

 

FAQ

Have some questions about completing a training contract at Howard Kennedy? We've compiled answers to some of the most frequent queries.

Read full FAQ

  • When will you start accepting applications?

    We recruit one year in advance. Applications for our September 2027 Training Contracts are currently open and will close on 8 March 2026.

  • What qualifications do I need?

    To be eligible to apply in this recruitment round, you will need to have completed or be currently studying and able to complete one of the below qualifications prior to September 2026:

    • Law degree
    • GDL/PGDL
    • LPC
    • SQE1
    • SQE1&2
  • What grades do I need?

    Whilst it is useful for us to understand your educational background we do not score grades or screen out applications based on grades.

  • Will you be offering the SQE route to qualification?

    Yes, our Trainees will qualify via the SQE route. As an SQE trainee, you will complete your SQE1 and 2 exams before starting a 24 month period of qualifying work experience with us. Howard Kennedy will fund your SQE1 and 2 exams and prep courses.

    Any applicants that have already completed the LPC route will not be required to complete any other part of the SQE.

  • Do you offer any paralegal positions?

    We regularly have opportunities for Paralegals to join us in various departments, these vacancies will be advertised on the careers pages on our website.

What we offer you

At Howard Kennedy, you'll have the space to be yourself while building a rewarding career grounded in high-quality work, trusted client relationships and close collaboration with exceptional colleagues. You'll be supported to develop your strengths, while contributing to a firm that values individuality, ambition and expertise. 

What we offer

What we're looking for

We are looking for individuals who are curious, motivated and keen to make a meaningful impact. We value people who seek to develop their expertise, contribute thoughtfully and take ownership of their career progression. 

What we're looking for 

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I chose Howard Kennedy because not only does the firm have a fantastic balance of high-quality work, interesting clients and a great quality of training, but it also exhibits a friendly and welcoming culture, largely due to the people who work here.    

Lauren walton, Trainee Solicitor 2025