Cartmell Shepherd is the only law firm in Cumbria to make the national Lex 100, which is based on reviews submitted by trainees.

The business is ‘friendly, outgoing and goes out of its way to help people,’ according to the list publishers.  The Lex verdict read: “Based in Cumbria and Northumberland, Cartmell Shepherd has ‘a great reputation in the area”.

Trainee highlights included ‘experiencing a wide variety of work in an environment where people want to help you and for you to succeed’, ‘exceeding client expectations’ and, of course, ‘being offered a job on qualification’.

“Indeed, trainees stand a good chance of securing a position at the firm post qualification, which is why Cartmell Shepherd holds a Lex 100 Winner medal in the confidence of being kept on category”.

“If you want to join a firm in the North with plenty to offer trainees by way of experience and training, Cartmell Shepherd is a great option.”

Cartmells has six offices across Cumbria and Northumberland and employs in the region of 100 staff.

Laura Bright qualified as a solicitor last month, having joined Cartmells as a trainee in September 2016.  She said: “It is a very friendly company to work for.  One of the things that attracted me to Cartmells was the number of activities they do outside of the office which you are encouraged to be involved in from the start”.

“They also have initiatives like trainee meals and nights out, so you can meet the team before you start.”

“Cartmells’ training contract is well structured, providing six-month seats across a variety of departments. You are able to work alongside the directors, which is great for learning”.

“To anyone now looking for a training contract, I’d say don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and have a chat – or even better call in with your application.”

Scott Garson is Cartmells’ Practice Manager and takes the lead on recruitment and HR for the business.

He said: “Providing a challenging and rewarding experience in a supportive environment is vital to ensure we train the next generation of solicitors to the high standard our clients expect”.

“I’m delighted with this year’s results and am hugely impressed with the talent we have available in our region; our trainee solicitors work hard and are a huge credit to the business.”