Since 2015, trainee solicitors have played an important role in the continued growth of our Dublin office. As a trainee at Walkers, you will be part of the team from day one, working alongside experienced lawyers and partners on complex legal matters for leading international clients. During the programme, you will gain experience across at least three practice areas, building the technical, commercial and professional skills needed for qualification.
The work is varied, challenging and international in nature. Whether assisting with investment funds, financing transactions, corporate matters or regulatory advice, you will gain meaningful exposure to high-quality legal work from the outset. You will be trusted with responsibility, supported through regular feedback and mentoring, and encouraged to develop your own career path within the firm.
At Walkers, we combine ambitious work with a collaborative culture. If you are looking for a training contract that offers excellent exposure, supportive colleagues and the opportunity to develop as a lawyer in a truly international environment, we would love to hear from you.
Key dates
Applications for our 2027 intake open on Monday 14 September 2026 and close on Saturday 31 October 2026.
For any questions about the programme or application process, please contact trainees@walkersglobal.com.
What you'll do
Trainees work closely with our lawyers on a wide range of matters for domestic and international clients. No two seats are the same and each provides the opportunity to develop new skills and build practical legal experience.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Drafting and reviewing legal documents
- Conducting legal and commercial research
- Supporting transactions and ongoing client matters
- Preparing corporate documentation and board materials
- Attending client meetings and calls
- Working closely with colleagues across teams and jurisdictions
Alongside day-to-day legal work, trainees benefit from structured learning and development opportunities and, where appropriate, client secondments. As your confidence and experience grow, so too will your level of responsibility.
Who we're looking for
We are looking for talented, motivated penultimate year or final year students, or graduates, who are interested in developing a career in financial services law. Successful applicants will have a strong academic record and demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for learning, collaboration and professional development.
We are particularly interested in candidates who are:
- Commercially aware
- Strong communicators
- Analytical problem-solvers
- Self-motivated and proactive
- Team players
- Positive and adaptable
- Interested in financial services and international business
Most importantly, we are looking for people who are ambitious, curious and eager to make the most of the opportunities available throughout their traineeship.
Why trainees choose Walkers
Choosing where to train is one of the most important decisions at the start of your legal career. At Walkers, trainees are given the opportunity to work on sophisticated legal matters from an early stage, developing practical experience while working directly with some of the industry's most experienced lawyers.
You will be part of a team advising major international clients across a range of sectors and jurisdictions. Exposure to high-quality work and close collaboration with colleagues across the firm creates an environment where trainees are encouraged to learn quickly and build confidence in their abilities.
Alongside challenging work, we are committed to providing structured support throughout your traineeship. Through mentoring, ongoing feedback, technical training and learning and development opportunities, we help trainees develop the skills needed not only to qualify, but to build successful long-term careers.
Your trainee journey
Over the course of the programme, trainees gain experience across at least three practice areas, developing both technical legal expertise and commercial awareness. An example journey is shown below.
Beyond your traineeship
Our trainees are part of a wider community that extends beyond day-to-day legal work. We have an active social committee, with representation from across the business, including trainees, which organises a range of activities throughout the year.
From team events and trainee socials to firm-wide celebrations and charity initiatives, there are plenty of opportunities to get to know colleagues and build lasting professional relationships. We believe that a supportive and collaborative culture is an important part of developing future lawyers and helping people enjoy their careers.
As trainees approach qualification, they have the opportunity to apply for newly qualified (NQ) roles within Walkers. We are committed to developing talent for the long term and supporting trainees as they take the next step in their legal careers.
Benefits
Alongside a competitive salary, we provide a range of benefits to support your professional development, wellbeing and life outside work.
These include full pay during PPC and fees fully covered, tailored learning and development opportunities, mentoring and client secondments, private healthcare, pension and income protection benefits, wellbeing initiatives including an onsite gym, and a range of travel and lifestyle benefits.
Trainees also benefit from dedicated trainee events, an active social calendar, CSR and Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, agile working arrangements and modern office facilities in the IFSC.
Frequently asked questions
How many practice areas will I experience?
Trainees gain experience across at least three practice areas during the programme.
Are PPC fees covered?
Yes. PPC fees are fully covered by Walkers and trainees receive full pay during PPC.
Are there opportunities for secondments?
Where opportunities arise, trainees may have the opportunity to undertake client secondments.
When do applications open and close?
Applications open on Monday 14 September 2026 and close on Saturday 31 October 2026.
Who can I contact if I have a question?
Please contact trainees@walkersglobal.com.
Ready to apply?
If you're looking for a training contract that combines high-quality work, international exposure and genuine support, we encourage you to apply.
We look forward to hearing from you.