Frequently asked questions
How many training contract places are there available for September 2014?
Four
How do I apply for a training contract with the firm?
Application is via our online application form which you can access via the link on the bottom of each page on the trainee section of our website. To ensure the recruitment process is fair all candidates must apply via the same method – CVs will not be accepted.
What is the deadline for application?
1 July 2012
When will I hear if my application has been successful?
The selection process takes place early August and we expect all training contracts to be offered and accepted by the end of the month. If you have not heard from us by the end of August you can assume your application has been unsuccessful. Unsuccessful candidates will receive confirmation by email early September.
I applied to Gordons last year...can I apply again?
Yes of course but you will need to complete a new application so that your details are up-to-date.
I don’t have a law degree…does that matter?
We don’t mind if your degree is law or non-law related, and usually we have a fairly even split between law and non-law graduates in our annual trainee intake.
I don’t have any legal work experience…
We appreciate that securing work experience can be as competitive as applying for a training contract so don’t worry if you haven’t had the opportunity to undertake any legal placements yet. Whilst legal placements are a great way of putting the theory you’ve learnt into practice, any non-legal work you’ve undertaken can also provide transferable skills that you can take into your legal career.
Do you run a vacation placement scheme?
We don’t run a vacation placement scheme or offer work experience placements, however if you would like to visit one of our offices for a tour and speak with our trainees/staff about their experiences please email your CV and availability to recruitment@gordonsllp.com.
I’ve been awarded a 2:2 for my degree…
Whilst we do look for a 2:1 minimum as our entry standard, we look at your whole application not just your degree grade and will take a broader view for those who just missed out. With only a small number of training contracts on offer competition is fierce so if you haven’t made the grade in your degree make sure the rest of your application demonstrates the best of you and gives us reason to select you for the next stage.
How early should I start applying for a training contract?
Recruitment for training contracts generally takes place 2 years in advance which means for law students the earliest you can apply is during the penultimate year of your degree. Non-law graduates undertaking the GDL and LPC full time can apply prior to commencing their legal studies if they wish.
Both law and non-law graduates should note that the LPC must be completed and passed before commencement of the training contract.
I’ve submitted my application but have additional work experience/exam results I now wish to add…is it too late?
Our shortlist for interview is not decided until after the deadline so there is no rush to submit your application. If you have submitted early and wish to add further information, please email your additions to recruitment@gordonsllp.com and we will add this to your application on your behalf.
Note that this only applies to additions prior to the deadline date. If you need to amend your contact details please inform us via the same email address.
Does it matter where I study the GDL/LPC or which electives I choose?
No, we have no preference where you study. We also have no preference which electives you choose although as you will be guaranteed to undertake a Commercial Property seat our trainees have suggested an elective in a related subject can help. This is however entirely your choice.
Does Gordons offer any sponsorship?
Yes, we offer our trainees a grant of £5,000 towards the LPC.
In which office will I be based for my training contract?
Our trainees spend time in both our Leeds and Bradford offices.
I’m thinking of taking a gap year…will this be a disadvantage to me?
We are happy for you to take a gap year…it’s what you do with the time off that counts!
Are there opportunities for paralegal work at the firm?
Opportunities for paralegal work arise on an ad-hoc basis and will be advertised on the general vacancies section of our website. If you would like your details to be held on file for possible future paralegal vacancies and/or summer work please forward your CV and availability to recruitment@gordonsllp.com.
Hurrah, I’ve been offered a training contract at Gordons, what happens next?
It may be up to 2 years until your training contract commences but rest assured we won’t forget about you! As a prospective trainee you will be kept informed of firm updates and invited to staff social events so that by the time you start with us you will know your fellow trainees and have met many of our partners and staff, which we hope will settle you in to firm life quickly.
Any final tips..?
Make sure you have completed all sections of the application fully, checking for spelling and grammatical errors… and last but not least…Good Luck!
Want to know more?
Find out what it's like to be a trainee at Gordons - look at our trainee blog.
Ask a trainee
If you would like to find out more about what it is like to be a trainee on our graduate programme or want some general advice on applying then click the link below to email one of our trainees who will be happy to respond.
Ask a trainee
How do I apply?
Click on the following link to access the secure application form.