We are pleased to announce the launch of our new programme to support paralegals who are committed to building a long-term career in family law, through sponsorship of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

This programme reflects the firm’s long-standing commitment to developing talent from within. Almost all of HFC’s partners have progressed internally rather than joining as lateral hires, and this initiative represents the latest extension of that internal pipeline.

How the programme will work

Paralegals will be recruited into the firm with the opportunity to develop their experience across complex and high-value family law work. After an initial year, those who demonstrate the capability, judgement, and intellectual rigour required at HFC may be selected for sponsorship of their SQE costs and retained for a further year to meet the requisite two years of qualifying work experience.

Following successful completion of this, participants will be eligible to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. Our aim is to retain those who qualify as associates, subject to business needs and role availability. As a boutique practice, we cannot guarantee an associate position for every participant, but the programme is designed to give strong candidates the best possible platform to progress and begin their careers as successful family solicitors.

Investing in the next generation

We undertake some of the highest-value and most complex family law work in England and Wales, often involving international elements, intricate financial structures, and sensitive reputational issues. This work demands exceptional legal ability, sound judgement, and resilience. The SQE sponsorship programme is intended to identify and support individuals with the potential to meet those demands over the long term.

By investing early in talented paralegals and supporting them through qualification, we seek to maintain the depth and quality of our future associates and partners, while offering a clear and structured route into specialist family law practice.

Applications

If you are interested in applying, please email your CV to [email protected].