Solicitor apprenticeship
About the programme
At HSF Kramer, we're committed to nurturing ambition from the ground up. Our Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme offers an alternative route into law — a structured and supportive pathway for those who want to pursue a career in law. Based in our London office, this six-year programme, blends world-class training, academic study, and hands-on legal experience. You’ll earn a competitive salary while working towards a law degree (LLB) and qualifying as a solicitor in England & Wales via the SQE route.
Register your interest

Discover life as a Solicitor Apprentice with us

Want to hear what it’s really like? Our video series shares  what to expect — from joining the firm and balancing study with work, to becoming part of our inclusive culture. Scroll through the videos to learn more about the programme, what to expect, and what life is like at HSF Kramer.
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A programme designed for you

As a solicitor apprentice, you'll be part of our team from day one — contributing to real work. Over six years, you’ll rotate through different practice groups and specialist teams, developing hands-on experience across key areas of law.

Alongside your rotations, you’ll receive world-class support and training, helping you grow into a well-rounded legal professional, with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to succeed.

Salary

£28,000 starting salary
Hard work deserves good pay. That’s why you’ll earn a competitive salary, which will increase as you progress on the programme.
£3,000 sign-on bonus
As an apprentice, you'll receive a one-off payment of £3,000 once you accept our offer, to help with starting out costs.
Support along the way
Your development is our shared ambition. You'll be supported at every stage through:

  • Dedicated supervisors in each seat to guide your daily development
  • Expert mentoring from lawyers across the firm
  • A trainee buddy to share insight and experience
  • Access to Early Careers HR, there to provide support and resources whenever needed
  • Coaches and tutors at BPP, offering expert academic support and pastoral care
What you'll gain
At the end of the six-year programme you'll have:

  • A law degree (LLB Hons – Law and Legal Practice)
  • Qualification as a solicitor in England & Wales
  • Six years of real legal experience at a leading global law firm

How to apply

Applications open: 27 October 2025
Applications close: 20 February 2026

Our application process is designed to let you show your potential, curiosity, and drive — everything you need to succeed in law, and thrive here with us.
Step 1
Application form
Kickstart your journey with us by completing our online application form. Here, you'll share details about your educational background and any work experience you've gathered along the way. We're also interested in hearing more about you, so you'll be asked to provide written responses to three application questions. 
Register your interest
Step 2
Online test
Once you've submitted your online application form, we'll send you a link to our interactive online assessment. It should take around 30-45 minutes to complete. If you'd like to get a feel for the test before diving in, we also offer a practice assessment which we would strongly recommend taking.
Take the practice test
Step 3
Video interview
If you're successful in the online assessment, the next step in our process is a video interview with our Early Careers Recruitment team. This is your chance to share more about yourself beyond the application. Don't worry if you're new to this format - we'll provide clear instructions to guide you through. Remember, it's not just about the answers you provide, but also a chance for you to ask questions and to get to know us better.
Step 4
Insight Day
Do well at the video interview stage and you'll be invited to our exclusive Insight Day - an opportunity to get a real feel for Life at HSF Kramer and to help you prepare for the assessment centre. The Insight Day isn't assessed – it's simply a chance for you to explore our offices, network with our trainees and partners, and gain a deeper understanding of our work. It's all about giving you a genuine glimpse into our world.
Step 5
Assessment Centre
The final stage of our process is the assessment centre, where you'll participate in three interviews. These include a case study interview, a scenario interview, and a competency interview. This is your chance to showcase your skills and potential in a variety of contexts. We've designed this stage to give you the opportunity to excel in different areas, making the process as comprehensive and fair as possible.
Step 6
Offer
If you shine at the assessment centre and are successful, you'll receive an offer to join our team in September. It's a significant step in your career journey, and we'll be thrilled to welcome you to Life at HSF Kramer. We're excited about the potential of working together and helping you grow in your legal career.

What we look for
Academic requirements
  • You should be in Year 13 or a school leaver without a university degree. We look for:
    • A minimum of AAB at A-Level or equivalent UCAS points
    • At least 7 GCSEs at grade 6 or above, including Maths and English
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Right to work
To become an apprentice, you must be 16 or over, and a UK citizen/someone who has right of residency in the UK.
Any questions?
Explore our FAQs to learn more about life at the firm and the range of opportunities available.
View FAQs

Related links

Your journey starts before you join us. Explore our opportunities to find out more about us and see whether a career with us is right for you.
Solicitor Apprentice job simulation This interactive experience offers a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of a Solicitor Apprentice at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, tackling real-world tasks and gaining invaluable insights.
Learn more
Early careers events
Considering a career at a world-leading law firm? Gain exclusive insights into our work, culture and application process through one of our Early Careers events.
Learn more
Any questions? Find the answers to a selection of frequently asked questions about life at the firm, our Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme and other Early Careers opportunities. 
Learn more