Training contracts
We value highly the contribution our trainees make and offers many opportunities for early responsibility, high levels of client contact and a vibrant, close-knit working environment. We can offer an excellent variety of practice areas in which trainees can receive their training, in contrast to many other commercial firms.
Who we want
We have approximately 20 trainee solicitors in residence at any one time. We recruit up to 10 each year between our London and Thames Valley offices for our annual intake each September. We aim to recruit people who are “individuals”, and who possess a wide cross-section of experience and backgrounds. We look for trainees who can demonstrate that they are intellectually sharp, hard working and ambitious and who show a keen understanding of commercial business issues within both company and private client fields. Excellent academics are required (i.e. AAB at A level and a strong 2.1 degree or higher). A range of extra curricular interests, team activities and responsibilities are also sought, together with a naturally engaging personality. A sense of humour is an asset!
We welcome applications for our summer placement scheme and training contract places from all candidates including undergraduates, graduates and those who have had a previous career. We take into account all relevant previous work experience, but candidates should note that a strong academic record is still a requirement.
LPC
We prefer our future trainees to attend specific Colleges for the LPC. Please click here for further details.
Route to qualification
Download our flow chart outlining some of the routes that candidates might follow to achieve qualification at Manches.
The training contract
The firm gives high-quality individual training. We provide a comprehensive induction week, followed by a highly practical training achieved by trainees being fully involved in supervised client work right from the start. Trainees generally sit in 4 different seats for 6 months at a time under the supervision of either a partner or senior associate. We try, where possible, to take into account seat preferences. This hands-on approach enables trainees to take on real responsibility from an early stage, ensuring that they become confident and educated solicitors at the point of qualification. Trainees are expected to actively participate in departmental know-how meetings, presentations, client seminars and briefings and they receive regular appraisals on their progress.
Salaries and benefits
Our trainee salaries are regularly reviewed and are currently:
- First year (London office) £30,000
- Second year (London office) £33,000
- First year (Oxford office) £22,000
- Second year (Oxford office) £25,000
Additionally, we operate a pension scheme, provides BUPA cover, life insurance, permanent health insurance and an annual season ticket loan - all of which trainee solicitors are eligible to join after a qualifying period.