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Careers > Law Students and Graduates > London Legal Work Placement

Careers

London Legal Work Placement

Our Legal Work Placement is your opportunity for an inside view of what it is like to work at K&L Gates. 

What is the K&L Gates Legal Work Placement?
Our Legal Work Placement is your opportunity for an inside view of what it is like to work at K&L Gates. It will also provide a general insight into the work of a contemporary, international law firm. During the two weeks you will sit in two departments and wherever possible we will allocate you to a seat of your choice. You will also participate in a programme of events and outings.

When is your Legal Work Placement?
We run a single two-week Legal Work Placement during June and July each year.

Who can apply?
The scheme is open to law students and non-law students. Applications from postgraduates seeking a Period of Qualifying Work Experience are also welcome.

What is the deadline for applications?
31 January 2026.

Will I be required to attend an interview?
Yes. You will be required to attend an interview in March 2026.

When will I know if I have been successful?
We will inform you by early April 2026.

How many positions are there on the 2024 Legal Work Placement?
There are up to 10 positions.

Do you hold Easter or Christmas Placements?
No, currently we only run a summer Legal Work Placement in June and July.

What grades do I need?
You will need to have achieved or be predicting a 2:1 degree and have 128 UCAS points or the relevant academic equivalent. We will consider mitigating circumstances where relevant. 

Legal Work Placement - June and July 2026
Submit Application by 31 January 2026
Attend Interview February or March 2026
Decision Made April 2026
Attend Legal Work Placement June and July 2026

If you have any questions relating to the SQE please contact us via trainee.recruitment@klgates.com.

You may apply via our online application form or you can request a paper application form from trainee.recruitment@klgates.com.

Please find below answers to some frequently asked questions in relation to our:

OPEN DAYS

What are Open Days?
Open Days are an opportunity for you to visit the firm and will enable you to make a more informed choice as to whether you could see yourself working here. During the day there will be presentations and the opportunity to speak to current trainees, you will find out more about the firm's practice areas, the culture of the firm, qualities, and attributes we seek in future trainees and information on how to master assessment centres. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a simulated group exercise and critical reasoning test.

How to apply?
Complete an application form for either our Legal Work Placement or Period of Qualifying Work Experience. On the form indicate that you are interested in attending an Open Day. You will then be contacted if an Open Day place is available. 

When are the Open Days?
Open Days will be held in January, April, and May. 

Who can I contact for further advice or information on your Period of Qualifying Work Experience, Legal Work Placement or Open Days?
For further information on our Period of Qualifying Work Experience, Legal Work Placement or Open Days please email queries to trainee.recruitment@klgates.com and we will respond promptly. Alternatively, contact Hayley Atherton, Senior Manager, Legal Recruiting EU & ME, on 020 7648 9000.

Do you sponsor the SQE?
We sponsor the SQE. 

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