Top law firms for qualification

In the 2026 survey, we identified the best performing law firms for qualification.

Methodology

For every firm taking part in our annual interview-based research, we also invite their trainees and NQs to respond to an online survey covering every aspect of law firm life. This year, our survey received 1,500 responses.

Respondents complete a series of questions asking about everything from their initial views on the firm and its competitors, to their relationships with partners and clients, to the firm's handling of training & development, seat experience, AI, hours, pay and qualification. We also ask them about their expectations, aspirations and how important all these factors were when joining the profession and how those views change as they mature. Each question involves a rating, which we agglomerate here for comparison.

The qualification scores are a combination of all of the factors that can affect retention, including the transparency of the process and realistic opportunities for qualification in a preferred practice.

The top law firms for qualification 2026