Wedlake Bell

Wedlake Bell is a London law firm advising businesses, individuals and families across private client, real estate, commercial and disputes matters. Its practice combines advice on personal wealth and assets with corporate transactions, property development, employment, intellectual property and litigation. The firm also handles cross-border matters, giving clients access to international advice through its London teams. For prospective trainees, a distinguishing feature is the opportunity to experience both business-focused work and advice directly affecting individuals: a rotation might involve company acquisitions, property transactions, estate planning or disputes over valuable assets. Its specialist art and cultural property practice adds another dimension, connecting commercial transactions and litigation with the interests of collectors, galleries and art businesses.

Wedlake Bell recruits eight trainees annually onto a two-year programme comprising four six-month seats. According to Chambers Student, trainees submit ranked preferences before each rotation, with allocation taking account of their interests and business needs. There are no compulsory seats, although the firm aims to provide experience across its core practices. The small cohort means trainees are often the only trainee, or one of two, in a team. The latest review does not identify international or client secondments as part of the programme.

Support includes a mentor, trainee buddy and seat supervisor, with formal mid-seat and end-of-seat reviews. Training develops legal knowledge and practical skills, supported by contact with HR and the Training Principal. The firm funds SQE preparation and examinations through a University of Law programme incorporating an LLM, with a £10,000 maintenance grant. Non-law future trainees complete the PGDL first, with funding and maintenance support where applicable. Chambers Student reports that qualification processes vary by department and may include an interview.