Maples and Calder, the Maples Group’s law firm, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for its recently launched Jersey Trainee Solicitor Programme. The new programme is open to all university graduates pursuing a career in law and entails completion of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (“SQE”) preparation courses and exams.

Participants of the bespoke two-year programme will balance hands-on legal experience with learning and education offered by the SQE route to qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales. In addition to fully covering the cost of the requisite courses and exams, trainees receive a competitive salary and an incomparable opportunity to gain experience in other jurisdictions through a six-month secondment to the firm’s London or Dublin office, a unique benefit of training with an international law firm. Prospective applicants currently residing in the UK are further supported with flights to Jersey along with serviced accommodation during their first month of training.

Nick Evans, Head of Office at Maples and Calder in Jersey, explained that the firm carefully developed the training programme to give exposure to the market-leading clients and transactions for which the Maples Group is renowned, but delivered in a way that appeals to the modern professional and takes into consideration the work-life balance aspects uniquely available in Jersey. “We are looking for applicants who want to embrace something different to the well-trodden path of a City training contract.

“We have combined the stellar educational and training aspects of the SQE programme with elements like an attractive salary, hybrid working arrangements, overseas secondment placement and other valuable benefits to create an experience that is holistic, comprehensive and designed to appeal to the next generation of solicitors.”

While the Trainee Solicitor Programme is a newly introduced initiative in Jersey, the firm has been supporting the careers of aspiring Jersey lawyers for several years through its well-established Bursary Scheme designed for secondary school applicants.

“The Trainee Solicitor Programme is a natural stepping stone from our Bursary Scheme and enriches our wider careers offering,” added Mark Crichton, Partner and Head of the Jersey Training Programme. “The level and quality of applications have been extraordinary, and we strongly encourage anyone wishing to make an application to do so as soon as possible.”

The deadline to apply for the firm’s Jersey Trainee Solicitor Programme is 28 February 2023. To learn more and apply, visit https://maples.com/en/careers/students-and-graduates/jersey-trainee-solicitor-programme.