We don’t just see you as an Apprentice; we envision your future as a thriving Associate.

Our Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme offers you an alternative yet equivalent route to qualification as a solicitor, culminating in the opportunity to take part in our Newly Qualified (NQ) process. After six years of training and hands-on experience, our Apprentices are eligible to participate alongside our Trainees in applying for Associate roles within the firm.

This marks the end of your apprenticeship journey, allowing you to transition into a qualified solicitor and continue your career at Dentons with a strong foundation and comprehensive understanding of the firm’s practices.

Our structured career framework is designed to support you throughout your career journey, enabling you to progress at a pace that matches your ambitions. Importantly, this framework continues to develop even after you qualify, ensuring your career path remains aligned with your evolving goals.

You will have access to ongoing training designed to enhance your skills and support your career progression.

Your journey begins with the Newly Qualified Lawyer Induction, where you will receive the resources and guidance needed to succeed in your new role. This induction will help you develop both personal and technical skills, and will also provide opportunities to network and gain insights from colleagues who have been in your position.

Once qualified, you will participate in the Junior Lawyer Development Programme (JDP). This programme offers a platform for professional development and networking, focusing on the key competencies and skills necessary for success as an Associate.

The JDP also incorporates the O-Shaped Lawyer principles, which promote a more well-rounded approach to legal training. These principles aim to improve the legal profession for everyone by fostering a more diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment, ultimately leading to better client service.

By aligning the O-Shaped Lawyer attributes with Dentons’ developmental approach and values, the JDP helps junior lawyers prepare for long-term success.

The programme emphasises the development of essential, life-long skills for career advancement, with particular focus on networking, business development, and negotiation

Becoming an Associate at Dentons is a gateway to a world of possibilities. Through our tailored skills training and career development programmes, Associates can confidently prepare for their next important career step. We understand that this transition doesn’t have to be overwhelming; we’re here to make it accessible and provide the support you need.

Our Associate Development Programme is designed to elevate the performance of our Associates. It aligns seamlessly with the Dentons competency framework and values while offering a platform to cultivate the skills required of lawyers in the future.

This program equips Associates for their journey toward becoming Senior Associates. Collaboration is at its core, fostering networking opportunities across our UKIME region. We emphasise the development of core skills for coaching and mentoring junior colleagues.

Key Focus Areas:

• Associates are encouraged to actively engage in business development activities, enhancing their skills in this critical aspect
• We provide insights and knowledge to sharpen financial acumen and commercial insight
• The program places importance on personal competencies and soft skills, recognising their significance in a well-rounded legal professional
• We actively encourage engagement with our I&D and CSR initiatives, fostering inclusive leadership skills and participation in sponsorship, coaching, and mentoring

We are dedicated to not only shaping legal professionals but also empowering them to thrive in their roles. As an Associate, you’ll have access to a comprehensive support system and development opportunities that will propel your career forward.

The Career Directions Programme (CDP) is aimed at Junior female Associates. It helps them to explore their future career at Dentons, and to navigate and proactively manage their development for career success. The CDP is designed to support Associates by creating a space for shaping career goals, increasing self-awareness, including identifying their strengths and how to play to them to further career success.

This programme is delivered by an expert facilitator using coaching, and includes topics such as:

• Understanding self;
• Examining the landscape for women’s careers;
• Exploring meaning and purpose in work;
• Leveraging networks.

Post-programme, participants are also offered internal coaching, and follow-up sessions designed to foster a sense of community and an opportunity. Become ONE OF US, and let’s navigate your journey to success together.