Hewitts is one of the fastest growing multi-disciplinary solicitors in the North East. Our success is down to the quality of people we have working for us. We pride ourselves on our friendly, team-oriented culture and are firmly committed to developing our staff through training with an emphasis on internal promotion.
We are committed to the development of the next generation of local legal talent and we are currently looking at expanding our Public Family team at both our Bishop Auckland and Stockton branch via our Graduate Law Programme.
Working alongside experienced and dedicated mentors, you will receive a high level of supervision, have exposure to a varied caseload and have hands on experience in a welcoming, collaborative and driven team environment.
About our Graduate Law Programme
We have a focus on our internal development programme, and it is our policy to first and foremost provide career opportunities to our current Legal Assistants / Paralegals. Therefore, any external candidate will be required to complete a 9-month Paralegal placement within the Firm before progressing to a Trainee Solicitor or other equivalent role.
Throughout this 9-month Paralegal placement your work will include carrying out various fee earning and admin tasks under the supervision of a Partner. You will have regular review meetings to ensure you are meeting the required standards.
What we are looking for
We are seeking dynamic and motivated individuals who are looking to becoming part of the fabric of the team at Hewitts and invest in their long-term career with the firm.
The ideal candidate will be proactive, detail-orientated and can demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills. You should be highly motivated to grow and develop within a supportive legal environment.
Applicants should have either:
* Completed a law degree; or
* Completed a non-law degree and a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
You will also:
* Have completed the LPC or be committed to studying towards the LPC; or
* Have passed the SQE1 examinations or be committed to studying towards the SQE qualifications; or
* Be committed to studying for the accredited CILEX lawyer course.
Why Join?
* Career Development: We are committed to the professional growth of our Paralegals and Trainees. Our approach allows you to get to know the firm before advancing to a Trainee Solicitor position.
* Supportive Environment: Work alongside experienced professionals who are dedicated to mentoring and developing the next generation of legal professionals.
* Pathway to Qualification: We help our Paralegals progress seamlessly into Trainee Solicitor roles, and we'll guide you through the qualification process with support through our time off for study leave policy.
What we offer
* Support, in the form of time off for studying, will be given for any qualification that you are working towards.
* Additional leave over the Christmas period.
* An additional day of leave for your birthday.
* Access to the Firm's Employee Assistance Programme.
* Social events.
* Support for and involvement in our charity work and fundraising activities.
Application process
Please apply with an up to date copy of your CV along with a covering letter explaining why you would like to join our Graduate Law Programme.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £23,000.00 per year
Education:
* Bachelor's (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 25/09/2025