Justice First Fellowship – Trainee Solicitor

Vacancy: Justice First Fellowship – Trainee Solicitor (Starting April 2025)

Location: Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI), London
Salary: £32,960 per annum
Deadline: 29 November 2024

Overview
We’re thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for an aspiring solicitor to join JCWI as a Justice First Fellow. Funded by The Legal Education Foundation, this Fellowship offers a unique path to a meaningful career in social justice law. Fellows train within a community of Justice First trainees and receive extra support, guidance, and development opportunities, positioning them to become future leaders in the legal field.

The Fellowship includes hands-on training in immigration, asylum, and public law, with a strong focus on complex, impactful cases. At JCWI, you’ll join a dedicated team working on high-profile matters that demand resilience, precision, and a commitment to defending migrant rights.

About the Role
As a Justice First Fellow, you will:
– Work directly on complex immigration, asylum, and public law cases.
– Gain experience across all aspects of legal practice, from file management to compliance and funding.
– Undertake an individual project that connects with your legal casework and contributes to JCWI’s mission.
– Join a supportive community of Justice First trainee solicitors for additional training and mentorship.

Candidate Profile
We are seeking applicants who are:
Committed to social justice and passionate about using the law as a tool for meaningful change.
Resilient and focused, able to handle high-stakes, challenging, and sensitive cases with professionalism.
Efficient and detail-oriented, with the ability to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Eligibility
Applicants must have passed or obtained an exemption from the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE 1) or have completed the Legal Practice Course. Overseas qualified lawyers are also welcome to apply.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of borders and/or race and from groups underrepresented in the legal profession.

Benefits

Opportunity to develop advanced case preparation and strategic skills.
Experience with high-profile and complex cases.
Join a network of Justice First Fellows and receive additional training and support.
25 days annual leave plus additional discretionary days at Christmas.
5% employer pension contributions
Ride to Work Scheme
Discounted Gym Group membership
Membership in JCWI’s staff union


Application Process

Apply here:  JFF Fellow application form site

Deadline: 29 November 2024

For questions, please contact Laura Smith at laura.smith@jcwi.org.uk.

Start your journey towards a fulfilling career advocating for social justice—apply today!