A Modern Firm with a Regional Heart
Shakespeare Martineau is a respected UK law firm known for its entrepreneurial outlook, regional strength, and broad sector expertise. With offices across the Midlands and beyond, the firm blends strong community roots with a modern approach to legal practice. For aspiring trainees, this means an opportunity to work closely with clients, take early responsibility, and develop in a supportive but ambitious environment.
If you’re targeting a training contract at Shakespeare Martineau, it’s essential to show that you’re commercially aware, people-focused, and ready to get stuck in.
Understand the Firm’s Culture and Vision
Shakespeare Martineau places high value on purpose-driven legal practice. Their brand centres on being “more than just lawyers,” delivering legal advice that empowers individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive. They encourage applicants to think about their own personal values and how those align with the firm’s inclusive, forward-thinking culture.
The firm also champions diversity and wellbeing. If these are causes you care about, mention them authentically in your application. It shows you understand what sets the firm apart from more traditional players in the legal market.
Tailor Your Application Carefully
A standout application for Shakespeare Martineau is one that’s tailored, precise, and honest. Don’t use boilerplate answers—research the firm’s practice areas and recent news, and link these to your own interests or experience.
Strong applications should:
- Highlight your motivation for choosing the firm
- Demonstrate an understanding of their client base and sectors (e.g. education, healthcare, energy, private client, and real estate)
- Use clear, well-structured examples that show teamwork, resilience, problem-solving, and communication
The firm wants trainees who are both personable and practical—people who can build relationships and deliver commercially relevant advice.
Emphasise Regional Commitment and Impact
With a strong presence across the Midlands (including offices in Birmingham, Leicester, Nottingham, and Stratford-upon-Avon), Shakespeare Martineau often appeals to those who want to make a real difference in their local area. If that resonates with you, don’t be afraid to say so.
You might also draw on experience from local volunteering, community projects, or legal clinics. Showing an ability to relate to clients and work on real-life legal issues goes a long way.
Prepare for the Assessment Process
The firm’s recruitment process typically includes:
- An online application
- A video interview or telephone screening
- An assessment centre (with exercises such as presentations, interviews, and written tasks)
In the assessment centre, Shakespeare Martineau looks for more than technical ability. They want to see how you interact with others, handle pressure, and think creatively. Be confident, collaborative, and curious. If asked about commercial topics, draw on relevant news or case studies related to the firm’s sectors.
Highlight Your Commitment to Growth
Trainees at Shakespeare Martineau benefit from hands-on experience, client exposure, and tailored training across four six-month seats. The firm also offers development tools and mentoring to support your progression.
During the application or interview stages, be prepared to talk about:
- What you hope to gain from the training contract
- How you learn from feedback and overcome challenges
- Your longer-term ambitions within the legal profession
This shows that you’re thinking beyond the application—you’re focused on building a sustainable and fulfilling legal career.
Final Thoughts
Shakespeare Martineau offers a dynamic environment where aspiring lawyers can build strong foundations. Their training contracts combine quality legal work with a collaborative culture and an emphasis on impact. If you’re passionate about law, ready to contribute, and eager to learn, Shakespeare Martineau could be the right firm for you.
Need help standing out in your Shakespeare Martineau application? Get expert one-to-one coaching to sharpen your CV, prepare for interviews, and boost your confidence.