NQ Opportunities – March 2026 (and Early Interest for September 2026)
Our clients include many of the most prestigious US and UK law firms in London — spanning Elite US outfits alongside Magic Circle, Silver Circle and leading international firms. Each has a strong track record of hiring exceptional Newly Qualified Solicitors into their London offices and is now actively meeting ambitious trainees ahead of their Spring 2026 intake.
While many firms have yet to begin internal retention processes, the lateral market is already in motion, with several teams also expressing early interest in candidates qualifying in September 2026.
This is a unique opportunity for trainees approaching qualification to secure a role at some of the world’s most respected legal institutions, offering high-profile, cross-border work and market-leading career development.
Practice Areas:
* Corporate / M&A
* Private Equity
* Banking & Finance (Leveraged Finance)
* Capital Markets
* Funds
* Litigation & Arbitration / Disputes
* Restructuring & Insolvency
* Competition
Candidate Profile:
* Trainee Solicitor at a leading City or international firm
* Qualifying in England & Wales in February or March 2026 (or early interest for September 2026).
* Strong academic background with quality training in at least one of the above practice areas.
* Commercially minded, motivated, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, international environment.
* Committed to building a career within a top-tier or elite platform.
We also offer advisory support on how best to position yourself to secure a qualified role, whether internally at your training firm or through a lateral move.
Rutherford is a leading legal search firm partnering with top-tier law firms, funds and financial institutions on both private practice and in-house mandates.
For a confidential conversation, please submit your CV to this vacancy or contact Rebecca at rebecca@rutherfordsearch.com.
Find more of our live roles here: www.rutherfordsearch.com/jobs