Trainee Solicitor

At Hillingdon Council, our in-house Legal Services team operates at the leading edge of local government practice. Every day, our lawyers put residents first, protecting the most vulnerable, prosecuting offences, tackling antisocial behaviour and supporting major planning, property and contractual matters.

We also handle complex and high-profile litigation where decisions have a direct impact on our communities.

As a Trainee Solicitor, you will undertake real legal work alongside experienced lawyers across a wide range of practice areas, including:

• Property
• Housing
• Civil litigation
• Contracts and procurement
• Adult and children’s social care
• Education
• Planning
• Licensing

You will gain hands-on experience and develop key professional skills, including legal research, drafting, communication, organisation, time management and client care.

This is a varied and practical training contract that will give you exposure to the full breadth of local government law.

About You

We are offering three training contracts to candidates who have completed the LPC and share our commitment to putting residents first.

• Two roles are available to start as soon as possible before August 2026
• One role will start after August 2026

You will be motivated, adaptable and keen to develop your legal career within a public sector environment.

What You’ll Gain

Over the two-year training contract, you will build experience across key areas of local government law, including childcare, education, planning, housing, landlord and tenant, and homelessness.

You will also gain a strong understanding of how legal services support the delivery of essential public services and improve outcomes for residents.

Why Join Us

At Hillingdon, we recognise that there are many pathways into a legal career. We are committed to developing your skills, supporting your progression and providing a structured and supportive training environment.

This is an excellent opportunity to start your legal career in a role that is both challenging and genuinely impactful.

Proposed interview dates: to be confirmed

• Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
• 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff. 
• Generous Holiday Entitlement – increasing with length of service (for non-casual roles).
• Hillingdon Sports & Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Salary Sacrifice Schemes – option to join schemes for cycle purchase, electric vehicle leasing and additional voluntary pension contributions (subject to scheme rules).
• Cycle to Work – Eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.
• Local Government Pension Scheme – access to Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
• Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
• Mental Health Support and Counselling Services – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues. Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.
• Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking.  
  

• Standard DBS Check
• Qualifications Check
• 5 years of Referencing