Macfarlanes Application Process

You can apply no matter what or where you have studied. You need a 2:1 degree or above, though we do take account of extenuating circumstances.

Inclusion

Inclusion is one of our key priorities and it is a goal we are actively working towards. We believe that an inclusive, forward-thinking culture is intrinsically important and enables us to provide innovative solutions to our clients.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, bringing different perspectives and experiences, making Macfarlanes an exciting and stimulating place to work. We seek to recruit the best candidates, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, social or economic background, religion, disability, sexual orientation or any other characteristic.

Application blind and contextual recruitment

We want to recruit the best candidates regardless of their background or where they were educated. Most of our assessment processes for both our vacation schemes and our training programmes are scored application blind. We also use a contextual recruitment tool to understand each applicant’s achievements in the context they were gained. We understand that not every candidate’s achievements look the same on paper, and we are a firm that believes in fairness and diversity.

First Year Insight Scheme

Our First Year Insight Scheme offers first-year students the opportunity to step inside the world of commercial law and discover what life at a leading City firm is really like. Over five days, participants will gain hands-on insight through Trainee shadowing, attending client calls, taking part in negotiation exercises, developing application skills and connecting with lawyers across the firm. Designed for students from all degree backgrounds, the scheme is the perfect opportunity to explore a legal career, build confidence and take the first step towards future opportunities with Macfarlanes.

Vacation Scheme

Our Vacation Scheme gives aspiring lawyers the chance to experience the role of a Trainee Solicitor first-hand over two weeks. Participants will work alongside lawyers in different practice areas, contribute to live matters, attend client meetings, take part in a mock transaction and engage with workshops, networking sessions and social events. Open to students from any academic background, the scheme provides a genuine insight into our distinctive culture, the quality of our work and what it takes to build a successful career at the firm.

Training Programme

We are looking for intellectually curious and driven people who want to build their careers at the highest level of Private Capital, Private Wealth, M&A and Disputes. We offer high-quality, distinctive opportunities that are career-shaping, with real responsibility and early exposure to our senior lawyers.

From the outset, you’ll work on high-value and high-profile matters, often international in scope. Our clients include global businesses as well as entrepreneurs and high net-worth families. You’ll gain broad experience across the full range of our work – from private capital and private wealth to complex M&A, high-stakes disputes and more – all under one roof in London, with the added perspective of our Brussels office which focuses on EU competition law.

Because our intakes are small, you’ll quickly get to know the people you’re working with – and they’ll get to know you. That means you’ll have real responsibility, direct access to Partners and senior lawyers who are leaders in their fields, and the chance to make a visible contribution right from the start.

Why train with us?

High-quality work and early responsibility: from day one you’ll play a meaningful role in high-profile cases and deals, gaining exposure to complex, rewarding work.
International opportunities: much of our work spans multiple jurisdictions, giving you the chance to work alongside leading international lawyers.
Close-knit culture: our size means your contribution will be visible, valued, and you’ll quickly feel part of the firm.
Supportive yet challenging environment: we want you to succeed, stretch yourself, and build confidence as you grow.
Exceptional people: you’ll learn from lawyers that are recognised leaders in their fields, in a firm that values individuality as much as technical excellence.

What we’re looking for

We recruit people from all backgrounds. We look for:

“brainpower”, intellectual curiosity and a commercial mindset;
analytical and adaptable minds; and
ambition, collaboration, resilience and drive.

Above all, we look for the determination to build a long-term career with us.

About the programme

During the two-year Training Programme, you will rotate across four departments, experiencing high-profile deals and being trusted with responsibility from the outset. Our Training Programme combines hands-on experience with first-class education, ensuring you're fully supported from your first day through to qualification and beyond.

Induction

Your training begins with a week-long induction. You’ll receive training from people across the firm to give you everything you need to know before starting your first seat.

Seat rotations

The two-year programme is made up of four six-month seats across a wide range of departments. These seats combine hands-on client work with seminars that are led by Partners and Senior Associates.

Every six months, you’ll be able to submit seat preferences and we do our best to place you in the areas that most interest you. In each seat you’ll be supported by two dedicated supervisors, while your Partner Principal oversees your training throughout.

Feedback and mentoring

We take your development seriously. You’ll have two formal reviews in each seat – a mid-seat review around three months in, and an end-of-seat review in your final weeks. These are designed to track your progress, highlight your strengths and identify any development areas.

In addition, you’ll be part of a small “constituency group”, giving you direct, regular access to a Trainee Solicitor Committee Partner. Alongside this, our Early Careers team, mentoring schemes and networking opportunities provide further support.

You may be surprised how quickly you feel part of the team – and how soon colleagues at all levels know your name and value your contribution.

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)

We partner with BPP to deliver a bespoke programme that goes well beyond exam preparation. You’ll combine classroom and digital learning with business simulations and Macfarlanes-specific modules designed to prepare you for practice.

All elements, including the bespoke Macfarlanes modules, are paid for by the firm. We also continue to provide additional financial assistance in the form of a £20,000 grant during this time.

Regular firm-led seminars and social events help you build knowledge and your network before you join.

If you studied a non-law subject, you’ll complete the PGDL at BPP before the SQE. Fees are covered, and we provide you with a £17,000 grant.

Apply now!