Graduate

Training Contract: September 2029/March 2030 Non-Law
Slaughter and MayLondon
Expected closing date: Friday, 13 November 2026
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TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- Applications for September 2029/March 2030 training contracts close on Friday 13 November 2026.
- Open to non-law finalists and graduates.
- Requires a strong 2:1 undergraduate degree and AAB at A-level (or equivalent).
- We hire two to three trainees.
- Applications are made via an online form, requiring detailed academic results and a cover letter/CV.
About the Role
Training Contract: September 2029/March 2030 (Non-Law)
Slaughter and May is recruiting for training contracts starting in September 2029 or March 2030. These contracts are open to non-law finalists and graduates.
Application Deadlines
- Summer Work Experience Schemes (2027): Applications close on Friday 4 December 2026.
- Training Contract (September 2029/March 2030): Applications close on Friday 13 November 2026.
Applications are encouraged as early as possible within the application windows. Offers are made on a rolling basis.
Eligibility
- Non-law students: You can apply in the autumn of your final year or as a graduate.
- Law Conversion Course (PGDL) students: You will be considered a non-law student.
- International law graduates: You may be required to complete modules of the Law Conversion Course (PGDL) and will be considered a non-law student.
Academic Requirements
- A-levels: AAB (excluding EPQ) or equivalent.
- Undergraduate degree: A strong 2:1, ideally a minimum of 65% and above in the majority of your modules for each academic year completed.
- Postgraduate degree (if applicable): A strong 2:1.
What We Look For
- Drive and interest in commercial law: Demonstrated through activities like open days, virtual insight programmes, law firm events, or university law fairs.
- Commercial awareness: Curiosity about how businesses operate and an understanding of the commercial world.
- Communication and interpersonal skills: Vital for client advice and teamwork.
- Resilience and grit: Ability to work hard, remain focused under pressure, and deal with the unexpected.
- Independent thought: Ability to articulate and defend your point of view.
- Diverse interests: A range of interests outside of law is encouraged.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the online form. You will need to provide:
- Personal details
- A full breakdown of all examination results (GCSE, A-level, undergraduate, postgraduate)
- End of year average results (percentage) for each year of study
- Explanation of non-UK grading systems, if applicable
- Cover letter (or responses to questions for Spring Forward/Solicitor Apprenticeship)
- CV
CV tips:
- No more than 2 sides of A4.
- Include factual information about your experiences.
- Demonstrate interest in commercial law through relevant activities.
Cover letter tips:
- No more than one side of A4.
- Address to Janine Arnold, Head of Early Careers Recruitment.
- Explain your interest in law and Slaughter and May.
Support and Adjustments
- Expenses payments are provided where relevant to ensure no one is prevented from attending interviews or opportunities due to financial constraints.
- If you require any adjustments to the application or interview process due to a disability or long-term health condition, please contact Sara Medgyesi, Early Careers Recruitment Executive.
- For general queries, visit the FAQs page or contact the Early Careers Recruitment Team via email or phone (020 7090 4454).