CMS |

With over 90 offices in over 50 countries and 7,200+ lawyers worldwide, CMS offers deep local market knowledge with a global perspective, giving us the ability to deliver legal solutions that are grounded in real world market dynamics and aligned with global trends. 

CMS is a Future Facing organisation of independent law firms, pushing boundaries in a fast-moving world. Our global reach and local expertise mean we see what’s coming, and we help our client stay one step ahead. 

The pace at which the world is changing is staggering and a slowdown is nowhere in sight. Technology is redefining what’s possible, unlocking new industries, markets, and opportunities. We work side by side with our clients, crafting smart, forward thinking strategies and supporting them every step of the way.

We don’t just work for our clients, we’re immersed in their world. Their interests and priorities are at the heart of what we do. Our lawyers are genuine experts, and our next-generation mindset is woven into all we do. We anticipate client challenges and develop innovative, creative solutions that work in the real world.

For us, the future of law isn’t just about delivering great work. It also about creating a workplace where our people thrive. We’re committed to building a diverse, flexible, inclusive, and socially responsible culture, where everyone is supported to grow, succeed, and be themselves.

Insight Programme 

Curious about a career in law and what it’s really like to be a Future Facing lawyer at CMS? Our programme goes beyond online research, it’s your chance to gain experience firsthand.

Over the course of a week, you’ll gain real insight through hands on work, skills sessions, trainee shadowing, and networking events. From coffee catch ups to social events, you’ll meet people from across CMS and start building your network.

Complete the programme successfully, and you could potentially be fast-tracked to a training contract assessment day, plus, you’ll be paid £475 for the week.

Training Contract

The route to securing a training contract with us is through an assessment day. Upon successful completion of our assessment day, you will be offered a direct training contract plus be enrolled on our award-winning CMS Academy programme.

Over two years, you’ll complete four six-month seats across different practice areas, gaining hands-on experience and building your expertise. We also offer flexible, part-time training contracts on a case-by-case basis, because we understand that one size doesn’t fit all.

From day one, you’ll be working with clients and collaborating with lawyers at every level. Your development will be supported through technical training, practical workshops, and ongoing guidance from your seat supervisor, our Emerging Talent team, and our dedicated trainee committee.

You may also have the opportunity to go on secondment, whether with a client, to one of our UK offices, or internationally. Plus, you'll have the chance to contribute through pro bono work and social impact initiatives that make a real difference.

About CMS Academy

Our flagship CMS Academy kicks off with a two-week experience, one week focused on the Business of Law development programme and one week working in your future office. You’ll meet clients, work on live matters, and start building your network, all designed to fully integrate you into the firm from day one.

Law Scholarships 

At CMS, we believe a career in law should be open to everyone. Since 2012, our Law Scholarship has supported some of the brightest future lawyers with funding, mentoring, and real-world experience. 

We are proud that some of our CMS law Scholarship winners have gone on to study at top UK universities and secure training contracts at leading global firms, including right here at CMS.

Up to 10 individuals will receive £3000 per year for each year of their degree, plus:

• One-to-one support with UCAS applications and the LNAT
• A dedicated trainee buddy for informal guidance
• An opportunity to complete a bespoke paid work experience programme in your first year of university (£450)

Work Experience (CMS Connect)

As a founding member of PRIME, CMS is committed to improving access to the legal profession. Our CMS Connect programme is designed for school and college students who might think a career in law is out of reach. This programme is here to prove it is not. 

This weeklong experience offers an introduction to life at a law firm through structured skills sessions, shadowing opportunities, and professional networking. You’ll also gain transferable skills valued across all industries.

Following the programme, participants receive continued support through:

• Ongoing mentoring
• Tailored application and career guidance
• Invitations to exclusive CMS events (both in-person and online)

You will also receive £350 on completion of the five-day work experience. 

CMS Connect is designed to inspire, inform, and support the next generation of legal talent.

Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship 

Our 36-month Graduate Apprenticeship offers an exceptional opportunity to gain practical legal experience while working towards qualification as a solicitor.

From day one, you'll be fully integrated into the firm with a tailored induction, early networking opportunities, and hands-on experience across multiple practice groups. One day a week is dedicated to your SQE studies at the University of Law, while the rest is spent gaining real legal experience at CMS.

This is a structured pathway to qualification, offering high-quality training, continuous professional development, and the opportunity to build your career from the ground up.

Please note that recent changes to government funding for Level 7 apprenticeships mean that funding is now only available to individuals who are 21 years old or younger at the start of their programme.

Solicitor Apprenticeship

Our six-year Solicitor Apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to earn while you learn, combining practical legal work with academic study.

You’ll complete a law degree (LLB) in Legal Practice and Skills at the University of Law at a location appropriate to your apprenticeship, with one day each week dedicated to study and the rest gaining hands-on experience across our practice groups at CMS. After completing your LLB, you will sit Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE).

From day one, you’ll be fully immersed in the business, supported through pre-joining events, a structured induction, and ongoing professional development, all within a dynamic and collaborative firm environment.

Business Services Apprenticeship 

At CMS, our Business Services teams play a vital role in the firm’s success. Our apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build in-demand skills, and grow your career in a dynamic, professional environment.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to develop existing expertise, you'll receive structured training and real-world experience to help you thrive and make a meaningful impact from day one.

We offer apprenticeships in:

• Business Administration (Level 3): Develop core office and organisational skills while supporting teams across the firm.
• Information Communication Technician (Level 3): Gain practical IT experience, from hardware support to network troubleshooting.
• Facilities Services Operative (Level 2): Learn the essentials of facilities management and client service in a fast-paced environment.
• Project Management (Level 4): Build your expertise in planning, budgeting, and leading successful business projects.

Please note that apprenticeship opportunities are offered on an ad hoc basis, depending on business needs.