Why Train at Charles Russell Speechlys?
For aspiring solicitors, a training contract is the essential bridge between academic study and qualification. If you are considering Charles Russell Speechlys (CRS), you are targeting a top 50 UK law firm with a unique focus on private wealth, family businesses, and international clients. With offices in London, Guildford, Cheltenham, and across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, CRS offers trainees the opportunity to work with both high-net-worth individuals and major corporate clients in an international environment.
This guide explores what makes CRS 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 Charles Russell Speechlys
Charles Russell Speechlys was formed in 2014 through the merger of Charles Russell and Speechly Bircham. Today, the firm employs around 1,000 staff, including more than 180 partners, and is recognised as a top 40 UK law firm.
The firm has a distinctive market position, balancing a strong corporate and commercial practice with leading expertise in private client and family law. Its recognised strengths include:
- Private Wealth and Family – advising high-net-worth individuals, families, and entrepreneurs.
- Corporate and Commercial – supporting businesses with mergers, acquisitions, and contracts.
- Dispute Resolution – handling complex litigation and arbitration, often with an international element.
- Real Estate – advising investors, developers, and family offices.
- Employment and Immigration – supporting clients with workforce and mobility matters.
- Charities and Not-for-Profit – advising philanthropic and charitable organisations.
CRS’s client base is diverse, ranging from wealthy individuals and family-owned businesses to large corporations and institutions.
Why Apply for a Training Contract at CRS?
There are several reasons why Charles Russell Speechlys attracts many applicants each year:
- Unique market position – CRS combines private client expertise with corporate and commercial strength.
- International reach – Offices in Paris, Geneva, Luxembourg, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore offer cross-border opportunities.
- Diverse client base – Trainees gain exposure to both private individuals and global businesses.
- Collaborative culture – The firm is known for its supportive and inclusive working environment.
- Smaller trainee cohorts – Compared to Magic Circle firms, trainees benefit from greater visibility and responsibility.
What the Firm Looks For
CRS is selective in its recruitment. The firm looks for candidates who combine strong academics with interpersonal skills and an interest in its specialist areas.
Key attributes include:
- Strong academics – A 2:1 degree or higher is usually required.
- Commercial awareness – Understanding how global, economic, and regulatory issues affect both businesses and private clients.
- Client focus – CRS places strong emphasis on building long-term relationships with clients.
- Communication skills – Both clarity and professionalism in writing and speech.
- Teamwork – The ability to work collaboratively across practice areas and jurisdictions.
- Adaptability – Handling varied work for both corporate and private clients requires flexibility.
The Application Process
1. Online Application
The process begins with an online application form. You’ll need to provide details of your academics, experiences, and motivations.
Tips:
- Tailor your application to CRS’s strengths in private wealth and family businesses.
- Avoid generic answers — demonstrate why you are attracted to CRS specifically.
- Show evidence of interpersonal skills and client care.
2. Online Assessments
Applicants may be asked to complete situational judgement or reasoning tests.
Tips:
- Practise sample tests to familiarise yourself with the format.
- Read carefully and manage your time effectively.
3. Video Interview
Successful candidates often complete a video interview with pre-recorded questions.
Tips:
- Keep answers concise and structured, using the STAR method.
- Show enthusiasm for CRS’s unique client base and international reach.
- Speak clearly and maintain strong eye contact with the camera.
4. Assessment Centre
Shortlisted applicants attend an assessment centre, which may include:
- Group tasks to assess teamwork and problem-solving.
- Written exercises or case studies to test clarity and client focus.
- Partner interviews exploring motivation, competencies, and commercial awareness.
Tips:
- In group work, balance contributing with listening.
- Be client-focused in your answers, always thinking about practical solutions.
- Demonstrate understanding of both business and private client needs.
5. Vacation Scheme Route
Like many firms, CRS recruits many of its trainees through its vacation schemes. Performing well during the scheme is often the most effective way to secure a training contract.
What to Expect as a Trainee
A training contract at CRS lasts two years, split into four six-month seats. Common seats include:
- Private Client – advising on tax, trusts, and estate planning.
- Family Law – handling divorce, finance, and international child matters.
- Corporate and Commercial – working on transactions and contracts.
- Dispute Resolution – gaining experience in litigation and arbitration.
- Real Estate – advising investors and developers.
- Employment – assisting with workforce matters for businesses and individuals.
Trainees benefit from:
- Early responsibility – Smaller cohorts mean greater involvement in real client work.
- Close supervision – Trainees work directly with partners and senior associates.
- Client contact – CRS places strong emphasis on relationship-building.
- International opportunities – Possible secondments to overseas offices or clients.
How to Stand Out
To secure a training contract at CRS, you need to demonstrate more than academic strength. Here are key ways to stand out:
- Research thoroughly – Understand CRS’s focus on private wealth and family businesses.
- Show commercial awareness – Be ready to discuss how global changes (Brexit, tax reforms, economic shifts) affect clients.
- Highlight interpersonal skills – Show empathy, discretion, and professionalism, especially for private client work.
- Demonstrate adaptability – Emphasise your ability to handle varied work across corporate and personal contexts.
- Be authentic – CRS values personable trainees who can build trust with clients.
Example Interview Questions
- Why do you want to train at Charles Russell Speechlys?
- How do you think our private client focus differentiates us from other firms?
- 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 or economic trends are currently impacting our clients?
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
At LawGrad Launch, we understand how competitive it is to secure a training contract at firms like CRS. With its unique mix of private wealth and commercial practice, you’ll need to demonstrate both technical skill and strong interpersonal qualities.
That’s why we provide tailored support, including:
- Application coaching – Helping you craft persuasive applications that reflect CRS’s values.
- Commercial awareness development – Building your ability to discuss issues affecting both businesses and high-net-worth individuals.
- Assessment centre practice – With group tasks, case studies, and written exercises.
- Interview coaching – Building confidence and structure for answering both competency and motivation questions.
We’ve helped students secure training contracts at leading UK firms — and we can do the same for you.
Final Thoughts
Charles Russell Speechlys offers one of the most distinctive training contracts in the UK. With its dual focus on private wealth and business clients, international offices, and collaborative culture, it provides a unique environment for trainees.
To succeed, you’ll need to demonstrate strong academics, commercial awareness, empathy, and adaptability. By tailoring your application, preparing thoroughly for assessments, and being authentic in interviews, you can give yourself the best chance of securing a training contract.
At LawGrad Launch, we’re here to support you every step of the way — from applications to interviews and beyond.
Get in touch with us today and let us help you secure your training contract at Charles Russell Speechlys.