A training contract with TWM Solicitors LLP

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1 A training contract with TWM Solicitors LLP

2 Professional and personable.

3 About us At TWM Solicitors we can trace our roots back over 200 years, and we are looking to build on these solid foundations by recruiting the right people who will ensure a successful future for themselves and the Firm. TWM Solicitors is the second largest law firm based in Surrey and among the largest 200 in the country. We are a multi-office Firm, with a presence in the key locations around Surrey as well as in Wimbledon and London (Chelsea and Mayfair). We practice in an affluent area of the country and this is reflected in the quality and profile of our private client practice. The south east is also the engine of the UK economy and our commercial teams work with successful businesses, many of which are owner-managed. We are recognised in numerous specialist areas in the current editions of The Legal 500 and Chambers. We have acquired three firms in recent years as part of our strategy for managed growth. Our main areas of expertise include: Business law Commercial property Dispute resolution Employment Family Private client Residential property Our ethos Relaxed and professional. TWM Solicitors is known as a highly competent provider of legal services, with a culture which places emphasis upon developing and nurturing close but relaxed relationships with clients at all levels and allows staff to achieve their potential.

4 The development of our legal and support teams so everyone can reach their potential is a critical success factor here at TWM. Matthew Truelove Managing Partner

5 Your training with us We recruit 4 trainees per year. Over the 2 years of training you will have 4 seats of 6 months, at least one of which will be a contentious seat. Where possible, we try to place you in your preferred seat. The deadline for applications for a training contract commencing August is the end of February of the previous year, i.e. the August 2017 deadline is 28 February To apply, please go to Suitable candidates must have a law degree or a non-law degree and GDL. Either way, we insist on a 2.1. along with: Previous relevant work experience that shows a genuine commitment to a career in law Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal Evidence of a pro-active approach to work An ability to work as part of a team and to deadlines Proficiency with IT and software, including Microsoft Office Knowledge of a second or subsequent language is desirable as is a willingness to take on non-core tasks. Our selection process is by way of an assessment day for short-listed candidates, during which you will have a number of tasks to complete: A critical reasoning test A written exercise A group discussion, including a presentation; and An interview Salary and benefits Currently year 1 trainees receive a salary of 24,000 p.a. (year 2 trainees earn 25,000 p.a.) alongside benefits including: 25 days holiday Pension (5% employer / 3% employee contribution) Private healthcare Life assurance (4 x annual salary)

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7 Sarah Higgs, year 1 trainee I first studied Theology at the University of London, taking the opportunity to immerse myself in a different subject that I enjoyed before embarking upon the GDL and LLM/LPC at the University of Law. I thoroughly enjoyed my legal studies during which time I undertook a number of work experience placements and also volunteered at my local Citizens Advice Bureau. TWM was at the top of my list when I was applying for training contracts. It had gone through an exciting period having taken part in a number of mergers and continuing to expand the breadth and quality of its service across its then seven offices (now increasing to 8). Its down to earth and approachable ethos was encouraging as well as the positive commitment to the surrounding communities through charitable fundraising and networking events. I have just begun my second seat in Commercial Property in Reigate having completed my first seat in Residential Property in the Epsom office. I have gained exposure to interesting and challenging work and the opportunity for responsibility from an early stage with a great support network. I have increased my knowledge and skills through first hand experience which is greatly encouraged at TWM; trainees do not sit on the sidelines! I have also organised and attended a number of social events at the firm from Fish and Chip Friday to the wonderful Summer Ball. I would encourage everyone to apply to TWM as a trainee - the work, support and social life are fantastic, don t miss out! Imogen Heywood, year 2 trainee During my time studying Law at the University of Bristol, I completed work experience and vacation schemes at city, regional and high street firms. This breadth of experience allowed me to recognise what was important to me when looking for a firm at which to complete my training contract. In particular, I hoped to be given responsibility and exposure to top quality work from an early stage, whilst maintaining a healthy work life balance. Having worked here for just over a year, I find that TWM certainly fulfils these criteria and more. The office rotation and relatively small trainee intake ensures everyone knows your name and makes you feel like a valued member of the firm. From day one I was encouraged to communicate directly with clients, and by the end of my second seat I had conducted client meetings alone and had a number of my own cases. This is something which has been key to developing my skills and confidence, and which friends at other firms have said they are still yet to experience by the end of their training. Importantly though, there is a very supportive environment and always someone available to provide helpful supervision and guidance. Similarly, although there have of course been occasions when a later finish is necessary, there is very much an encouragement to pursue your own interests outside of work. Outside the office there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the broader aspects of life at the firm. For example I have been encouraged to take advantage of networking opportunities, both directly law-related and more broadly in Young Professional events, as well as helping to organise TWM s annual barbeque and rounder s tournament. I feel incredibly fortunate to be training with a firm as well-rounded as TWM and can safely say that I would recommend any potential trainees thinking of applying to do so.

8 Further information Tel: (HR Administrator) Offices and contact numbers Guildford Epsom Leatherhead London (Chelsea) London (Mayfair) Reigate Wimbledon Cranleigh General enquiry