Top law firm acknowledged for trainees

Wilkin Chapman Rollits has been recognised among the top UK law firms for trainee satisfaction as it welcomes a fresh cohort of 10 trainee solicitors. This Lincolnshire and Yorkshire-based firm achieved an impressive ranking in the latest Chambers Student Guide, landing within the top 10 "Elite" firms for categories such as “training and development”, “supervision and contact time”, and “qualification”. Furthermore, it secured a spot in the top 25 in two additional categories, showcasing its commitment to nurturing legal talent.

This year, Wilkin Chapman Rollits garnered a total of six ratings, a marked improvement over last year's two, including “excellent” ratings for “overall satisfaction” and “hours and work-life balance”. The firm received a “strong” rating for “compensation”, indicating a well-rounded experience for its trainees. Notably, 100 per cent of surveyed trainees and newly qualified solicitors expressed happiness in their roles, reaffirming their belief that they made the right choice in selecting Wilkin Chapman Rollits as their training ground. One trainee shared their perspective with Chambers, stating that “you have some of the best expertise and support, but also the independence and ability to carry out your own work”.

Angela English, the learning and development manager, reflected on the firm’s positive survey results, saying “Chambers Student gives trainees the opportunity to talk honestly and independently about their experience of working and training with the firm. To see every trainee surveyed say they are happy in their current role and feel they chose the right firm is wonderful feedback. The three 'Elite' ratings recognise the support our trainees receive as they develop”.

With the addition of the new trainees, Wilkin Chapman Rollits is poised for growth as it continues to nurture the next generation of legal professionals. The new cohort includes Esme Bayliss, Jessica Jopling, Libby Dunham, Lottie Warsop, Thomas Smith, Wiktoria Bulczynska, Erin Culhane, Eve Ostler, Hannah Hall, and Trinity Herberts. Four of these trainees, specifically Erin, Eve, Hannah, and Trinity, have advanced into their training contracts after demonstrating their capabilities in previous roles within the firm.

Additionally, in a successful cycle of progression, ten solicitors from last year’s cohort have recently qualified and secured permanent roles throughout the firm. These new solicitors work across various areas, including Corporate and Commercial, Employment, Real Estate, Family, and Disputes and Regulatory. Lead training partner Lisa Boileau expressed her satisfaction with the latest developments, stating that “it is particularly pleasing to be recognised for 'Qualification' as we welcome 10 new trainees and celebrate another 10 colleagues qualifying and choosing to continue their careers with us”.

The firm has recently commenced applications for training contracts set to start in 2028 and 2029, signalling its forward-thinking approach to recruitment. Boileau encouraged potential applicants, emphasising their goal for trainees to envision a long-term future with the firm, where they can build on their training and advance their careers post-qualification. A trainee encapsulated this sentiment, saying that “people certainly tend to stay for the long haul. It’s a good firm to stay at and develop, and they really try their best to help you do that”. With more than 530 partners and staff located across several areas including Grimsby, Lincoln, Louth, Hull, York, and Beverley, Wilkin Chapman Rollits stands out not only for its supportive training environment but also for its commitment to fostering lasting legal careers.

The firm’s two-year training contracts offer a diverse range of experiences, including both private client and business services work, with trainees typically completing four six-month placements, or “seats”. Applications for the upcoming training contracts will be accepted until 31 January 2027, with interested candidates encouraged to visit the firm’s website for further information and to apply. To explore the firm’s full profile in the Chambers Student 2027, visit Chambers Student | Wilkin Chapman Rollits