Apprentice Solicitor

As a Solicitor Apprentice you will complete a comprehensive programme of training and development to obtain the required skills, knowledge, values, behaviours and competencies to be awarded an LLB in Legal Practice and Skills.

You will complete the SQE 1 and 2 examinations within the agreed, contracted timeframe (SQE 1 in the penultimate year of study, and SQE 2 in the final year of study).

As this is a development opportunity your duties will vary over the course of the apprenticeship. In the first two-three years, you will carry out routine administrative tasks in the legal team and fulfil a planned programme of job placements in the legal service across the various teams.

In the final three years as a Solicitor Apprentice, you will be undertaking trainee-level tasks. You will assist with the delivery of routine tasks, dealing with day-to-day work including (but not limited to):

Meet all required criteria at the end of each placement for progression.

From year 4 onwards, prepare a work-based portfolio of evidence.
Undertake a wide range of projects, duties and responsibilities to achieve high standards within each placement and demonstrate the deliverable outcomes as agreed at the start of the programme.

Conduct proceedings and transactions under the supervision and training of a qualified solicitor including: attending courts and tribunals; drafting legal documents and correspondence; taking instructions and identifying clients' requirements and goals; evaluating and assessing information, evidence and legal issues including carrying out research.

Build strong professional relationships within the council to improve cross function understanding and partnership working.

Specific individual and shared targets and objectives are defined annually within the performance management framework.

Training Outcome:

This is a developmental role, offering the opportunity to undertake a 6 year programme of placements throughout Essex Legal Services, in addition to online learning one day per week of study with the University of Law to work towards your LLB university degree, completion of the SQE 1 and 2 and the study of other key skills including the preparation of a work-based portfolio of evidence.

Employer Description:
At Essex County Council, we look after a large, diverse, complex region of the country. But our approach to creating a place where individuals, families and communities can thrive and prosper is simple.

Working Hours :
There is an expectation that you will be required to work onsite 5 days each week in the first 3 months, 4 days each week for the following 6 months and then 3 days each week for the remainder of the contract.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Administrative skills,Team working,Initiative