Trainee Solicitor - Crime (Training Contract)

Watson Woodhouse Limited; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking law firm in Tees Valley is seeking a Trainee Solicitor in their Crime Department. The role involves preparing cases for court, engaging with clients, and drafting legal documents. Candidates should have completed their LPC or SQE, possess excellent communication skills, and have a strong academic background. The firm offers a hands-on training experience, integrating new solicitors into a supportive and collaborative team. Applications are now open for the 2026 intake.

Benefits

Hands-on experience from day one

Structured training sessions

Exposure to a variety of clients

Qualifications

• Completion of LPC or SQE is required.
• Strong academic record preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are a must.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing cases for court.
• Attend police stations and shadow qualified solicitors.
• Draft legal documents and client correspondence.

Skills

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Strong academic record

Genuine interest in criminal law

Collaborative mindset

Education

Completion of LPC or SQE

Job description

Trainee Solicitor - Crime (Training Contract)

Middlesbrough, N/A, United Kingdom

Full Time

Closes February 28, 2026

Are you ready to take the next step in your legal career with a dynamic, forward thinking law firm that offers real experience and support from accomplished Solicitors? If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding training contract in a modern environment, based in the heart of Teesside, look no further.

About Us

At Watson Woodhouse and Macks Solicitors, we pride ourselves on being a strong, ambitious firm with a national reputation for legal excellence. Recognised as standout specialist advisors across key legal sectors, we combine top tier legal work with a genuine focus on people, our clients and our team.

We are committed to developing the next generation of legal talent, and our trainees are at the very heart of our long term vision. When you begin your training contract with us, you're not just joining a firm you're starting your future.

Why Choose Us?

• Work alongside experienced and respected legal professionals
• Gain hands on experience from day one
• Participate in structured, firm wide training sessions
• Engage directly with a broad range of clients
• Become part of a welcoming, collaborative and driven team

The Role - Crime Department

As a Trainee Solicitor in our Crime Department, you will be immersed in a fast paced and impactful area of law.

You will:

• Assist in preparing cases for court, including magistrates’, youth and crown court
• Attend police stations and shadow qualified solicitors during
• Draft legal documents and client correspondenceSupport with advocacy preparation and case strategy discussionsGain exposure to complex and varied criminal matters

This seat offers an exceptional foundation in criminal law and an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of clients.

Who We're Looking For

We’re seeking passionate, driven and proactive individuals who are ready to thrive in a challenging legal environment. You’ll need to demonstrate:

• Completion of the LPC or SQE
• A strong academic record
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A genuine interest in criminal law
• A collaborative mindset and eagerness to learn

Start Your Journey with Us

If you’re ready to train with a firm that values your potential, supports your growth, and challenges you to be your best, we want to hear from you.

How to Apply

If you aspire to join us in our next 2026 intake, we are eager to hear from you. We invite applications from both LPC and SQE graduates.

For those shortlisted to the next stage of our assessment process, we will be in touch to schedule an interview with us in March 2026.

We are keen to learn more about you during this process, and you will have ample opportunities to engage with our Talent Team and other professionals across the firm.

Application Timeline

• Jan 2026: Application window opens
• End of Feb 2026: Application window closes
• March 2026: Shortlisted candidates invited to first stage interview
• (date to be confirmed): Final stage interviews with our Head of Department and Talent Team for successful candidates
• (date to be confirmed): Offers made to join us in TBC 2026