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: https://www.rutherfordsearch.com/jobs 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