Graduate Recruitment

Why train at Keoghs?

Keoghs  is a Top 100 law firm with a national reputation. We employ over 500 staff. With modern, purpose built offices near Bolton and Coventry, we are able to provide our trainees with the opportunity to work in a large, commercial environment without the associated hassles of the city centre.

What are the main areas of work that the firm is involved in?

Keoghs main practice areas are defendant personal injury litigation, commercial litigation, employment law, crime & regulatory and fraud.

What kind of trainee solicitor is the firm looking for?

Each year we look to recruit the partners of the future and, indeed, many current partners and assistant solicitors joined the firm as trainee solicitors.

You should be able to demonstrate a high academic standard (at least a 2:1 degree but not necessarily in law), an ability to work well in teams, and good communication and decision making skills.

We welcome commercially aware, enthusiastic and self-motivated team members with good IT skills and a sense of humour.

What can the trainee expect from the training contract?

The role of our trainees is varied. Whether it is advocacy, drafting, research, reviewing or advising, we aim to provide the opportunities for you to develop your skills required for future practice.

You will undertake a flexible programme of six month periods in four of the firm's main practice areas. You will work as part of a specialist team, receiving specific training from your team leader or mentor. The supervisor will assess you during and at the end of your placement to review your progress and development of drafting, research, communication, advocacy and negotiation skills.

It is recognised that some trainees may have previous experience that may qualify for a reduction in the duration of their training contract. Keoghs will consider each application for time to count against the training contract on a case by case basis in line with our business needs.

What about personal development?

Our training contract has been developed with a view to offering all trainees employment with Keoghs on qualification.

We closely monitor the development of our trainees and they are encouraged to have their say in weekly meetings with the firm’s trainee mentor.

Formal appraisal takes place regularly throughout the course of the Training Contract.

As an additional benefit, the firm runs a comprehensive programme of in-house technical and soft skills training designed to complement the compulsory Professional Skills Course.

Is there a social life?

Keoghs’ trainees are members of both Manchester Trainee Solicitors Group (MTSG) and Bolton Trainee and Young Solicitors Group (BTYSG). We pay for our trainees to attend the annual Manchester Trainee Solicitors Ball. Keoghs Social Committee is also extremely active in organising  subsidised events throughout the year from sports activities to theatre trips and parties.

Who should I contact for further information?

Angela Lewis, HR Consultant at alewis@keoghs.co.uk

How do I apply?

Please submit your CV together with a covering letter to support your application using by using our on-line facility. Click here to apply.

How are trainees selected?

If successful, candidates take part in a two stage interview which incorporates interviews and presentations.

When is the closing date?

Our recruitment runs from around March to July each year.  Details are available on our website during recruitment.

What does a trainee earn?

The salary for each year of the training contract is market rate (but is in excess of the Law Society minimum).