Howard Kennedy FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Howard Kennedy!

When do Howard Kennedy start accepting applications?

Howard Kennedy recruit one year in advance. Applications for their 2025 training contracts will open in 2024.

Do I need to have completed my LPC at the time of application?

You must have completed your LPC, or be due to complete your LPC by September of the year your training application starts i.e. if you apply for a September 2025 contract you must be due to finish your LPC by September 2025. If you do not meet the transitional arrangements to be able to study the LPC you must have completed the PGDL at the point of application.

Will Howard Kennedy offer the SQE route to qualification?

September 2025 Trainees will qualify via either the SQE or the traditional training contract route. As an SQE trainee, you will complete your SQE1 and 2 exams before starting a 24 month period of qualifying work experience with the firm. Howard Kennedy will fund your SQE1 and 2 exams and prep courses.

Are there any paralegal positions available?

Howard Kennedy regularly have opportunities for Paralegals to join the team in various departments, these vacancies will be advertised on the careers pages on their website.

Do Howard Kennedy fund the PGDL/LPC/SQE?

Howard Kennedy pay the full fees for the LPC or SQE and prep courses. They are also able to offer a maintenance grant of £10,000 but do not offer any funding towards the GDL or PGDL. Howard Kennedy are not able to offer funding for the LPC retrospectively.

Do Howard Kennedy interview on a rolling basis?

No, all interviews will be held after the closing date for applications.

Do Howard Kennedy offer work experience or vacation schemes?

Howard Kennedy don't offer vacation schemes or work experience outside of their formal scheme with their charity partner but do hold insight days every year which provide a great opportunity to find out more about the firm.

Does Howard Kennedy accept applications from non-law graduates?

Yes! Trainees at Howard Kennedy come from a diverse range of backgrounds and they welcome applications from those with undergraduate law degrees, or any other subject.

Does Howard Kennedy accept applications from mature students and career changers?

Yes - the firm like to assess everyone on their individual merits and value having a diverse body of trainees.

What qualifications do I need?

Whilst it is useful for the firm to understand your educational background, they do not score grades or screen out applications based on grades. You need to have completed a qualifying law degree, or a non-law degree (or equivalent) and the PGDL in order to apply for a training contract.

I studied abroad; how do I enter my qualifications?

Please tell Howard Kennedy their equivalent value or the relevant scale. You can find more information on the UCAS website.

Will I hear whether my application has been successful?

Howard Kennedy will contact all applicants whether successful or unsuccessful within one month of the closing date.

What happens after that?

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to partake in an online critical reasoning test and pre-recorded video interview before an assessment day.

Will I receive feedback on my application?

Regrettably, due to the volume of applications that Howard Kennedy receive, it is not possible to give feedback to every applicant. They will, however, offer feedback for all candidates who attend their assessment day.

How many training contracts are typically offered?

Usually between 6-10 each year.

I applied last year – can I re-apply?

Yes, Howard Kennedy accept applications from previous applicants, please ensure you tell the firm what stage you reached last year.

I am currently employed by Howard Kennedy. Can I apply?

Yes you may apply, please make sure you inform your line manager that you are applying for a training contract.

What is the recruitment process?

You will need to apply using Howard Kennedy's online application. Any applications received outside of this will not be accepted. The firm will contact you during April or May to let you know what stage your application has reached, and whether they will invite you to an assessment day.

What will a Training Contract involve?

Howard Kennedy offer services both to businesses and to individuals. The firm's Training Contracts are geared to give their trainees exposure to a range of work. They offer 4 seats of 6 months in different departments, including their core areas of business: Real Estate, Corporate, Dispute Resolution, Employment, Private Client and Family. Howard Kennedy try to match trainees’ individual interests to the seats that they complete, balancing individual preferences with business needs. The firm offer a range of different support and development opportunities during the two years, including providing a junior and senior mentor; legal training sessions and skills development sessions such as networking and giving presentations.

Where will I be based?

Howard Kennedy operate from one single office, located at No.1 London Bridge, SE1 9BG. The firm operate an agile working policy. Agile working allows individuals to adjust their approach depending on client, team and business demands. This could mean working part of the week remotely and part in the office but flexing this around client commitments, work demands and team meetings.

Apply now!