Training contract

Our award-winning Trainee Induction Programme plays a key role in helping you begin your Training Contract with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed. The programme has been developed with input from colleagues across the firm, from Senior Partners to current trainees who have experienced the learning journey themselves.

Combining practical learning with professional skills development, the Induction Programme provides a safe and supportive environment in which to learn. Before starting your first seat, you'll gain a clear understanding of your role as a trainee, how you contribute to the London office, and how your work supports Clifford Chance's wider strategy and global business.

Throughout your Training Contract, you'll benefit from regular, structured support from your supervisors, monitoring partners and the Early Talent Development team, helping you stay on track and make the most of your development opportunities.

You'll also be supported by a dedicated Early Talent Development Specialist assigned to your trainee cohort. They will meet with you at key stages of your SQE journey to discuss your career aspirations, answer any questions and ensure you have the guidance and support you need from day one.

We recognise that qualifying as a solicitor can feel like a significant step. That's why we begin these conversations early, providing personalised support throughout your Training Contract to help you navigate the qualification process with confidence.

During your two-year Training Contract, you'll gain hands-on experience across a range of global product groups and teams. Our seat allocation process gives you the opportunity to share your preferences, helping you explore the areas of law and specialisms that interest you most.

From Debt Finance and Disputes to Tax and Private Equity, you'll develop a broad range of legal and commercial skills while working on complex, cross-border matters. You'll also have the opportunity to undertake international and client secondments, gaining valuable insight into different sectors, markets and ways of working.

We'll work closely with you to help you make the most of your Training Contract, supporting you in building an experience that reflects your interests, strengths and long-term career goals.

Supporting trainee wellbeing is a key part of the Training Contract experience at Clifford Chance. We offer a wide range of wellbeing resources, support services and initiatives designed to help you thrive throughout your training and beyond.

We recognise that everyone faces personal and professional challenges at different stages of their career. That's why we provide access to a broad network of support, including colleagues, wellbeing champions and firm-wide support services, ensuring you have the guidance you need when it matters most.

Many of these resources take a holistic approach to wellbeing, supporting your mental, physical and professional wellbeing while helping you build resilience and maintain balance throughout your career at Clifford Chance.

We understand the importance of building strong professional networks and having mentors who are invested in your development. At Clifford Chance, you'll work alongside experienced associates and partners who are committed to supporting your growth, providing exceptional learning opportunities and exposure to high-quality, complex legal work.

Throughout your Training Contract, you'll be supported by a dedicated supervisor in each seat, who will guide your day-to-day development and help you build the skills needed to succeed as a lawyer.

In addition, you'll be paired with a Partner Sponsor who will support you throughout the full two years of your Training Contract. Acting as a mentor, adviser and trusted sounding board, they will help you navigate the opportunities and challenges of your career, offering guidance as you develop within Clifford Chance.

Over a quarter of our trainees are on secondment at any given time, reflecting our global outlook and commitment to developing internationally minded lawyers. As a global law firm, we encourage our trainees to gain experience across different jurisdictions, cultures and markets, helping them develop a broader understanding of our clients' businesses and the legal challenges they face.

International secondments provide a unique opportunity to work closely with colleagues and clients around the world, build global professional networks and gain first-hand experience of cross-border legal work. This exposure helps develop the commercial awareness, adaptability and global perspective needed to succeed at Clifford Chance.

Relocating internationally is a significant step, and we'll support you throughout the process. From practical guidance and relocation support to language lessons where appropriate, we'll help ensure a smooth transition. Throughout your secondment, the London Early Talent Development team will remain in regular contact, providing ongoing support and helping you make the most of your experience.

From day one of your Training Contract, you'll have access to the Clifford Chance Global Academy, our learning platform designed to support the ongoing development of trainee solicitors and lawyers. Through a combination of technical legal training, business and commercial learning, you'll develop the knowledge, skills and commercial awareness needed to succeed in your business area and build a long-term career in commercial law through tailored learning and development opportunities.