Government Legal Department will offer Leeds-based pupillages for the first time, reflecting Yorkshire’s growing influence in the UK’s legal sector.
Aspiring barristers in Leeds can now undertake their pupillage in the city for the first time, thanks to the Government Legal Department’s (GLD) latest recruitment campaign.
The GLD, which provides legal services to the UK government, has traditionally based its pupil barristers in London. However, its 2025 recruitment drive includes pupillages at the Leeds office, reflecting the fact that Leeds is one of the UK’s biggest legal hubs outside of London.
This historic move is also slated to diversify access to legal careers, aligning with GLD’s goal of creating a legal service that represents the communities it serves.
A national approach to legal excellence
“I am delighted that we continue to offer pupillages at GLD as a unique route into the legal profession alongside our trainee solicitor scheme,” GLD’s permanent secretary and treasury solicitor, Susanna McGibbon, commented.
“These opportunities – in London and in Leeds – demonstrate our commitment to nurturing legal talent across the country, as we continue to build a national GLD reflecting the society we serve,” she added.
Applications now open – but act quickly
Applications for GLD’s pupil barrister positions are open until 30 January 2025, providing an exciting new pathway for those aiming to build their legal careers in Leeds and beyond.
For more details on the application process, visit the Pupillage Gateway.
Image: © MachineHeadz via Canva
Correction: This post incorrectly stated that positions were open until 6 February 2025.
Josie Geistfeld
Josie Geistfeld is Editor of Yorkshire Legal News. She welcomes comments and questions.