Job Description

Job description
We have an exciting opportunity for a Legal Apprentice to join our Risk function in the A&O Shearman Belfast office.
The Apprenticeship
Apprentices will be employed within A&O Shearman's Risk function and will gain experience across a number of different sub-teams such as In-House Legal, the Business Acceptance Unit, Risk Operations (including Client Audit), the Engagement Terms Team, and Data Privacy while studying for your LLB at Ulster University one day per week.
This is an exciting opportunity with the chance to build relationships and gain first-hand experience of what working in-house in a global industry-leading law firm is like. The firm, in partnership with University of Ulster, will be committed to investing in training to enable you to gain your LLB. The apprenticeship is offered as a 4-year fixed term contract.
For the apprentice there's no cost to do a higher level or degree apprenticeship. You'll be paid as an employee of A&O Shearman as well as receiving a university education that is paid for by the Department for the Economy.
Take the first step towards a successful legal career and apply now!
Key Requirements

• Previous experience is not required, we are looking for candidates with an interest in pursuing a role in the Legal sector.
• 3 A Levels (grades AAB or equivalent)
• 3 GCSEs (grades C or above, including English Language)

Our ideal candidate

• Someone with excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex information clearly and concisely.
• Attentive to detail - you should have a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly in document review and legal research.
• A team player who has strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and interact professionally with clients and colleagues.
• Motivated with a proactive attitude and a commitment to completing the apprenticeship program successfully

What we offer
The apprenticeship scheme at A&O Shearman is truly an exceptional experience. If successful, you will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced lawyers and other legal professionals on key projects and contribute to the growth of the business. You will have the opportunity to develop key legal skills by working with clients and offices across the globe. While also gaining exposure to cutting edge Legal Technology.
Application Process
The application process for the Legal Apprenticeship involves:

• Online application
• Assessment Centre (including work simulated tasks, group exercises and an interview)
• Offer

Applications close on Friday 27th February at 5pm.
The start date for the apprenticeship will be early September 2026.
We recognise that our people are our most valuable asset, which is reflected in the wide range of benefits that are available to our employees. Some of these benefits include: our occupational pension scheme, group income protection cover, mental health resources and free apps, health and wellbeing services encompassing GP service, emergency back-up care support, parental and special leave, online discounts and lifestyle management services.?
We recognise the value of flexible working and embrace hybrid working, allowing our people to work from home up to 40% of their working time. We do, however, remain committed to working together in person for the remaining 60% of time so that we can learn, grow and succeed together.
Should you require additional support at any stage of the recruitment process due to a disability or a health condition, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our recruitment team who will work with you to provide any adjustments as required.
We are an equal opportunities recruiter and do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
If this role is not of interest we may have another suitable opportunity here for you at A&O Shearman! Visit our careers portal at and submit your CV to our to be notified when the perfect opportunity becomes available.
Area of expertise
Risk Management & Compliance
Additional information - External
A&O Shearman is a new global industry-leading law firm, with 48 offices in 28 countries worldwide. Our fluency in English law, US law, and the laws of the world's most dynamic markets, enables us to provide unmatched insight and seamless delivery to clients. We work on challenging and important deals and disputes that have the potential to shape the future.
We offer exceptional opportunities for our people; opportunities to work for the world's leading businesses; to transform the status quo, and to deliver your best work, helping you and your career to thrive, while delivering unparalleled outcomes for our clients.
Whether you're helping clients solve complex challenges, transforming the ways we manage our business, or ensuring the smooth-running of our operations, this is an environment where you can belong and excel. We provide first-rate training and development, we are committed to an inclusive environment, and we provide support and ways of working that help you optimise your wellbeing.
What truly defines a career with us? We recruit the best and ask for the best of you. And together, we will redefine success.
Working arrangement
Hybrid (combination of office & remote working)

Skills Required