Our clients include a selection of the most prestigious US and UK law firms, spanning Elite US outfits alongside Magic Circle and Silver Circle leaders. Each has a strong track record of hiring exceptional Newly Qualified Solicitors into their London offices and is now seeking ambitious NQs to join their Spring 2026 intake across a range of practice areas.
This is a unique opportunity for trainees approaching qualification to secure a position at some of the world's most respected legal institutions.
Available Practice Areas
* Corporate
– Advising on complex M&A, joint ventures, and public/private transactions for multinational corporates and financial institutions.
* Tax
– Working on cross-border structuring, transactional support, and advisory mandates across corporate, funds, and finance matters.
* Finance / Banking (Leveraged Finance)
– Acting for sponsors, lenders, and borrowers on market-leading leveraged and acquisition finance transactions.
* Private Equity
– Supporting leading global sponsors across the full investment cycle, from buyouts to exits.
* Litigation & Arbitration
– Representing corporates, funds, and financial institutions in high-value disputes, investigations, and arbitration.
* Energy & Infrastructure
– Advising on renewables, traditional energy, and large-scale infrastructure projects across multiple jurisdictions.
* Funds
– Working with sponsor clients on private equity, credit, infrastructure, and hybrid fund formation, as well as investor mandates.
Candidate Profile
* Trainee Solicitor at a leading City or international firm, qualifying in
February or March 2026
.
* Strong academic background with solid training experience in at least one of the above practice areas.
* Highly motivated, commercially minded, and able to operate in a fast-paced, international environment.
* Commitment to developing a career within an elite or top-tier platform.
Why Apply?
* Exposure to high-profile, cross-border mandates at the cutting edge of the market.
* The opportunity to work alongside leading partners and specialists recognised in their fields.
* Competitive remuneration packages at both Elite US and Magic/Silver Circle levels.
* Structured training, support, and clear progression paths for ambitious associates.
This is an excellent chance to secure a role at qualification with firms that consistently rank at the very top of the market, offering NQs unparalleled experience and career development.
Rutherford is a leading legal recruiter that also works closely with tier one sponsors, buyside firms and investment banks for in-house roles. Please get in contact if you would like to be alerted to the most exciting Counsel opportunities.
To find more of our jobs please visit our website:
Job Reference: NWC3391
Keywords
NQ, Newly Qualified Solicitor, 2026 intake, corporate, tax, finance, leveraged finance, private equity, litigation, arbitration, energy, funds, Magic Circle, Silver Circle, US law firms, London