Newly Qualified Solicitors

Find out more

Newly Qualified in Law?

Taking your first step as a newly qualified solicitor is an important career milestone. We regularly work with law firms looking to recruit NQ solicitors across a range of practice areas and locations.

While NQ opportunities vary depending on market demand, our consultants can help you understand what is available, where firms are hiring and how best to approach your first move as a qualified solicitor.

Candidate &
Client Feedback

“We were looking for an experienced fee earner who had managed their own case file to join our business - with the view to moving our business forward. Clayton Legal listened to what we were looking for, kept us updated and were really pleasant and helpful; finding us the perfect candidate for the role. Clayton Legal are professional and get results.”

Practice Manager, Cambridge
“I required assistance with the recruitment of a Costs Draftsman and the role was heavily time pressured. Clayton Legal were very quick with responses and all feedback was clearly communicated. Clayton Legal have been excellent in supporting our recruitment needs for quite a few years now and they have never failed to deliver professional advice and assistance.”

HR Manager
“Legal recruitment agency Clayton Legal absolutely understood our requirements and I was impressed with the speed that our request was dealt with in our search for a Conveyancing Solicitor. Communication from the team at Clayton was first class, as was the shortlist of suitable candidates supplied. The service we received throughout was excellent - the Consultant we worked with was friendly, approachable and is an asset to you.”

Practice Manager

Meet Our NQ Team

Mike Shipcott

Senior Talent Attraction Partner

Mike is an experienced Senior Talent Attraction Partner with over seven years in the recruitment industry, including extensive work within...

Find out more
Louise Kearns

Managing Director

Louise is the Managing Director of Clayton Legal, and began her career in sales, where she quickly learned that strong relationships,...

Find out more
Laura Lissett

Marketing Consultant

Laura is a strategic marketing and brand professional with more than 20 years’ experience across the professional services, finance and...

Find out more
Liz Holdham

Recruitment Operations Co-Ordinator

Liz joined Clayton Legal as an Administrative Assistant in early 2025 as she worked towards her Business Administration Level 3...

Find out more