Starting Your Legal Career with CMS
For aspiring solicitors, securing a training contract is one of the most important milestones on the path to qualification. If you are considering CMS, you are targeting one of the world’s largest law firms. With more than 80 offices in over 40 countries and a strong UK presence, CMS offers trainees the chance to work on high-value, cross-border matters while gaining exposure to a diverse range of practice areas.
This guide explores what makes CMS distinctive, what the firm looks for in trainees, how the application process works, and how you can maximise your chances of securing a training contract.
About CMS
CMS is a top 10 global law firm and one of the largest in the UK, with offices in London, Bristol, Manchester, Sheffield, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. The firm was created through a series of international mergers, including the landmark 2017 combination of CMS, Nabarro, and Olswang, which positioned it as a major player in the UK legal market.
The firm is particularly strong in the following sectors:
- Energy and Infrastructure
- Financial Services
- Technology, Media, and Communications (TMC)
- Real Estate
- Life Sciences and Healthcare
CMS is widely respected for its innovation, client focus, and ability to deliver seamless advice across jurisdictions. For trainees, it offers the chance to be part of a truly global law firm while still benefiting from structured training and a supportive culture.
Why Apply for a Training Contract at CMS?
There are many reasons why CMS is a popular choice for trainees:
- Global reach – With offices across the world, CMS provides international opportunities and exposure to cross-border work.
- Sector expertise – Its focus on industries like energy, real estate, and technology ensures trainees gain experience in dynamic markets.
- Diverse practice areas – Trainees rotate across contentious and transactional departments.
- Innovation – CMS is known for adopting cutting-edge technology in legal services.
- Inclusive culture – The firm has strong commitments to diversity, sustainability, and social responsibility.
What the Firm Looks For
CMS is highly competitive in its trainee recruitment. The firm seeks candidates with both academic excellence and the personal qualities to thrive in a fast-paced, international environment.
Key qualities include:
- Strong academics – A 2:1 degree or higher is usually expected.
- Commercial awareness – Understanding how global events affect the firm’s clients and industries.
- Adaptability – CMS often works on fast-moving, innovative matters; trainees must adapt quickly.
- Communication skills – Both written and verbal clarity are essential.
- Teamwork – Collaboration across teams and jurisdictions is central to CMS’s culture.
- Global mindset – With its international footprint, CMS values candidates who think globally.
The Application Process
1. Online Application
The process begins with an online application form. You’ll be asked to provide details of your academics, work experience, and motivation for applying.
Tips:
- Highlight why CMS appeals to you — especially its sector focus and international reach.
- Show evidence of commercial awareness through internships, part-time jobs, or academic projects.
- Use examples that demonstrate adaptability, resilience, and teamwork.
2. Online Tests
Applicants may be asked to complete online assessments, such as situational judgement and reasoning tests.
Tips:
- Practise similar tests in advance.
- Focus on accuracy and time management.
3. Video Interview
Successful candidates often complete a video interview stage. This typically involves recorded questions testing motivation and competencies.
Tips:
- Treat it like a live interview: dress professionally and look into the camera.
- Prepare clear, concise answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
4. Assessment Centre
Shortlisted candidates attend an assessment centre, which may include:
- Group exercises testing teamwork and problem-solving.
- Written case studies assessing analysis and communication.
- Partner interviews exploring motivation, competencies, and commercial awareness.
Tips:
- Contribute constructively in group tasks while listening actively.
- Show enthusiasm for CMS’s global and sectoral strengths.
- Demonstrate clear reasoning and client-focused thinking in case studies.
5. Vacation Scheme Route
CMS, like many international firms, recruits a significant number of trainees through its vacation scheme. Excelling during the scheme is one of the most direct routes to a training contract.
What to Expect as a Trainee
A training contract at CMS lasts two years, divided into four six-month seats. Seat options may include:
- Banking and Finance – working on major financing transactions.
- Corporate and M&A – advising on domestic and international deals.
- Dispute Resolution – handling commercial disputes and arbitration.
- Energy and Infrastructure – advising on renewable energy projects and utilities.
- Real Estate – working on transactions, developments, and financing.
- Technology and IP – advising on cutting-edge innovation, data, and media matters.
Trainees benefit from:
- International exposure – with opportunities for client or overseas secondments.
- Structured training – including technical sessions and professional skills workshops.
- Mentoring – each trainee has a supervisor and access to career development support.
- Early responsibility – CMS trainees are often trusted with meaningful client work early on.
How to Stand Out
To maximise your chances of securing a training contract at CMS, focus on these strategies:
- Research thoroughly – Go beyond the firm’s website. Read about CMS’s recent deals and global initiatives.
- Demonstrate commercial awareness – Be ready to discuss how global events (e.g., energy transition, AI, economic shifts) affect CMS clients.
- Show adaptability – Provide examples of when you handled change or pressure effectively.
- Highlight a global outlook – Mention language skills, cross-cultural experiences, or interest in international work.
- Be authentic – CMS values approachable, personable candidates who can build long-term relationships.
Example Interview Questions
Candidates may face questions such as:
- Why do you want to train at CMS?
- Which of our sector focuses interests you most, and why?
- Tell us about a time you worked effectively in a team.
- How would you explain a complex legal issue to a client with no legal background?
- What global challenges are currently affecting our clients?
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
At LawGrad Launch, we understand how tough it is to secure a training contract at global firms like CMS. With thousands of applications each year, you need more than strong grades — you need a strategy that helps you stand out.
We offer tailored support including:
- Application coaching – Crafting applications that highlight your strengths and align with CMS’s culture.
- Commercial awareness development – Helping you understand the global challenges affecting clients.
- Assessment centre practice – With group tasks, case studies, and written exercises.
- Interview coaching – Building confidence so you can deliver persuasive, structured answers.
We’ve helped students secure interviews and offers at top firms across the UK — and we can help you too.
Final Thoughts
CMS offers one of the most exciting training contracts available. With its global reach, strong UK presence, and sector focus in industries like energy, finance, and real estate, the firm provides an exceptional environment for aspiring solicitors.
To secure a training contract, you’ll need to demonstrate academic ability, commercial awareness, adaptability, and a global outlook. By tailoring your application, preparing thoroughly for assessments, and being authentic in interviews, you can put yourself in the strongest position to succeed.
At LawGrad Launch, we’re here to support you every step of the way — from applications and assessments to interviews and beyond.
Get in touch with us today and let us help you secure your training contract at CMS.