Training contracts

What is it really like to work as a trainee solicitor at DMH Stallard?

We consider our trainee solicitors to be the future of our firm.

We recruit trainees both from within our internal Paralegal pool and externally.  Paralegals are recruited into the business when new vacancies arise in both support and fee earning roles.  Progression and development is offered to paralegals, through the opportunity to apply for a training contract at the annual assessment.

We also welcome applications from motivated LPC graduates from all backgrounds.  Enthusiasm, a commercial outlook, good communication skills and adaptability are all essential skills.  At DMH Stallard you will be working not only in a specialist practise group, but also involved in cross-disciplinary teams. We are currently working on our SQE strategy and will update this website once it is confirmed.

DMH Stallard views trainees as an important asset of the firm and we expect them to make a significant contribution. As our trainees have direct access to clients from an early stage it is important that good client care skills are developed, which includes being aware of the client’s business or personal goals. Our goal is to prepare our trainees to be effective solicitors on qualification.

Our training programme

Our training programme comprises four six-month seats across the business, giving trainees the chance to experience working in both contentious and non-contentious practice areas.  Seats are usually offered in: corporate, employment, dispute resolution, family, personal injury, private client, planning, real estate, real estate dispute resolution, technology, media & telecoms dispute resolution.

Trainees may be required to undertake seats in any of our Brighton, Hassocks, Horsham, Gatwick, London or Guildford offices and it is important that they have the flexibility and willingness to do so.

How can I find out more about DMH Stallard?

In addition to the research you would undertake about the Firm, you may wish to speak to someone who works at DMH Stallard.  Representatives from DMH Stallard attend a number of events over the course of the year at various universities and careers fairs.

Application

We are now accepting applications for training contracts to commence in September 2024.

To be eligible to apply you must have completed your LPC (or be due to complete it ahead of the September 2024 start date). We are still finalising our SQE strategy and are unable to accept applications from individuals who have completed the SQE at this time.

To apply, you will need to complete an on-line application form and upload a copy of your CV and a cover letter including your response to the following questions (in no more than 300 words for each):

1 – Please explain why you have decided on a career as a solicitor.
2 – Please explain why you are seeking a training contract at DMH Stallard.

The closing date for applications is 7th April 2024.

Recruitment Process

There is a two stage assessment day process.  The assessments days are challenging and include a range of assessments, exercises and interviews.

The first round includes a written exercises and a range of assessments and a brief interview. The second stage comprises a presentation and interview with the Panel, along with further assessments/tests.  

The first assessments days will be held on Wednesday 8th May and Thursday 9th May

Should you be successful in the first round, you will be invited back to a second assessment day on either Wednesday 22nd or Thursday 23rd May.

Please ensure you are available on these dates as we are unable to consider applications from individuals who cannot attend the assessment dates.

We are looking for well-rounded individuals who can manage responsibility early in their training contract, and our assessment process reflects this.

If you have any questions please email recruitment@dmhstallard.com or call 01293 605067

Job opportunities for newly qualified solicitors

Our policy is to select and develop trainees who will have, at the end of their training contract, the skills and enthusiasm to continue their career with us.  We endeavour to retain as many trainees as possible, subject to the needs of the business.  Ideal applicants are those with the potential to become effective managers or strong business developers.
If you are a paralegal or a trainee solicitor looking for an exciting new role, why not have a look at our current vacancies page and send us an email.

Here’s what some of our current trainees have to say about us:
“The training at DMH Stallard is second to none and has, so far, been the highlight of my career.”
 
“DMH Stallard is a great place to work. Partners frequently stop by for a chat when passing and our managing partner knows everyone’s names – this is rare in a law firm. Recent awards for our training are testament of the management’s efforts to create an open and inclusive working environment. I firmly believe this is what makes DMH Stallard unique.”
 
“I genuinely feel like DMH’s approach to training, and DMH’s culture has helped me to get the most out of my training contract. I am now a much more confident, skilled and accomplished trainee.”
 
“Overall, working at DMH Stallard means working on interesting cases with both long-standing and new clients, it means being encouraged to develop your skills with support, and it means having a good work-life balance in a friendly environment.”
 

  • Brighton - Jubilee St

    1 Jubilee Street

    Brighton

    East Sussex

    BN1 1GE

  • Brighton - Old Steine

    47 Old Steine

    Brighton

    East Sussex

    BN1 1NW

  • Gatwick

    Griffin House

    135 High Street

    Crawley

    West Sussex

    RH10 1DQ

  • Guildford

    Wonersh House

    The Guildway

    Old Portsmouth Road

    Guildford

    Surrey

    GU3 1LR

  • Hassocks

    32 Keymer Road

    Hassocks

    West Sussex

    BN6 8AL

  • Horsham

    3rd Floor

    Afon Building

    Worthing Road

    Horsham

    West Sussex

    RH12 1TL

  • London

    6 New Street Square

    New Fetter Lane

    London

    EC4A 3BF

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