Solicitor Training Contracts

Applications for Training Contracts commencing September 2026 are now open. The deadline for applications is 20th February 2026.

"They are bringing in great junior lawyers and training good lawyers to create the next generation. I fully endorse what they are doing." 

- Chambers High Net Worth Guide, 2024

Crane & Staples is one of Hertfordshire’s leading high street law firms, recognised by both Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK for excellence across multiple practice areas. Joining our firm as a trainee solicitor means becoming part of a team respected for its legal expertise, client service, and strong presence in the local community.

We have an outstanding reputation for training and development, with a track record of nurturing exceptional legal talent. Our former trainees have gone on to achieve great success, whether at Crane & Staples or in other highly regarded firms and organisations. Notably, former trainee solicitors Mischa McKevitt, Katie Lane, and Georgina Christou have all won the Hertfordshire Law Society Junior Lawyer of the Year Award.

In a typical year, we offer three training contracts, providing trainees with a focused and supportive environment in which to develop their skills.

What We Look For

We seek high-achieving candidates with a proven track record of academic excellence. The ideal trainee will demonstrate:

• Outstanding results in their degree, GDL, or SQE studies or equivalent
• A genuine dedication to law and developing technical knowledge as a solicitor
• A client-focused and personable manner
• A strong interest in supporting the local community
• Professionalism, teamwork, and a collaborative mindset

What We Offer

At Crane & Staples, trainees receive hands-on experience across a broad spectrum of legal matters, usually completing seats in the following departments:

• Private Client
• Family, including Private and Public Law
• Employment and Dispute Resolution
• Residential and Commercial Property
• Business and Commerce

Trainees benefit from mentorship from highly respected solicitors and partners, gaining the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to build a successful legal career. Trainees work under the supervision of our dedicated and enthusiastic Partner and Training Principal, Mr Manish Patel.

Our close-knit team environment ensures that trainees are fully supported, with colleagues, including partners, eager to share expertise and guidance. Beyond legal training, staff enjoy a friendly, inclusive culture and opportunities to take part in community events, charity initiatives, and firm social activities.

How to Apply

Please email your CV and cover letter to Karen Angel, Office Manager – k.angel@crane-staples.co.uk.

Please ensure your CV includes:

• Details of academic qualifications including GCSEs, A Levels or equivalent;
• Your degree classification, LPC results or equivalent/SQE preference, including modules and grades achieved;
• If your degree classification is pending, your predicted degree classification as well as evidence of previous results and recent grades;
• If your LPC result is pending, your predicted grade as well as any exam results already received throughout the course.
• Details of any relevant legal work experience.

"Crane & Staples is an excellent environment for a Trainee Solicitor. I am surrounded by a team who are more than willing to teach me new skills, and who are patient in doing so – even the Partners! There is a healthy, friendly working culture and employees really do care about each other. The work-life balance is far better than what I expected it to be in a law firm, and there are a multitude of events that we take part in each month, ranging from Careers Fairs, to Charity Obstacle Courses. I feel like I am in the best place for my personal development at this stage of my career, and would strongly advise anybody seeking a career in Law to apply for a role at Crane & Staples"

- Jonny Baynes, Trainee Solicitor.