Trainee Solicitor Programme
Take the next step in your legal career with us, where our dedicated team is committed to your growth and success
Discover What It’s Like to Train with
Davidson McDonnell
Hear directly from our solicitors who have completed their training contracts with us as they share their experiences, the skills they developed, and what makes Davidson McDonnell a rewarding place to start a legal career.
Life at Davidson McDonnell
At Davidson McDonnell, we believe great work happens in a supportive, dynamic, and collaborative environment. You’ll work closely with experienced lawyers who are approachable, committed, and invested in your development, gaining hands-on experience with real client matters from day one.
We encourage curiosity, initiative, and teamwork, helping you build confidence, develop your skills, and shape a career you can be proud of at one of Northern Ireland’s leading independent law firms.
Discover our key practice areas and find out where you could make an impact.
Our Practice Areas
Rewards & Benefits
We take pride in looking after our people. From competitive rewards and benefits to a culture that values wellbeing, development, and work–life balance, we ensure our team feels supported and appreciated at every stage of their career.
Testimonials
Adam Evans
Legal Executive
Corporate/M&A
"Working at Davidson McDonnell has been incredibly rewarding. The work is diverse and engaging, and from day one I was trusted with real responsibility on high-level transactions alongside major international firms.
The firm fosters a supportive, growth-focused environment where you’re encouraged to develop and take initiative — an ideal place to build a career within an ambitious, client-focused team."
Darragh Armstrong
Trainee Solicitor
Commercial Litigation
"I joined Davidson McDonnell straight after university and have really enjoyed my time here. The firm is welcoming and supportive, with exceptional expertise and a strong focus on learning.
As part of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution team, I’ve gained hands-on experience across commercial disputes, bankruptcy, and insolvency matters, from drafting and research to client meetings and court work.
It’s been an invaluable experience, and I’d highly recommend the firm for its high-calibre work and genuine commitment to professional development."
Claire McVicker
Solicitor
Commercial Litigation, ADR
"The culture at Davidson McDonnell is welcoming and inclusive. You have direct access to everyone within the firm, and there’s a genuine interest in supporting you as you start your career. After completing my training contract in September 2024, I qualified into the Commercial Litigation team.
Every day is different, with regular exposure to court work, mediations, client consultations, drafting, and research.
Although the firm is modest in size, the calibre of our people, clients, and the quality of work truly rival larger firms — making it a very exciting time to be part of Davidson McDonnell."
Anna Dobbs
Trainee Solicitor
Corporate/ M& A
"I began my training contract with Davidson McDonnell in September 2024, attracted by the opportunity to rotate through multiple seats and gain experience across different practice areas. The team has been extremely welcoming and supportive, helping me settle in quickly.
The firm has a friendly work environment and promotes networking through a variety of events, including office gatherings and, most recently, an event for young professionals at White's Tavern in Belfast."
Alice Finlay
Senior Solicitor
Commercial Property
"I joined Davidson McDonnell in May 2017 and have been with the firm ever since. I was a legal executive and then a trainee solicitor before qualifying into the Commercial Property team in September 2020. Davidson McDonnell has been a fantastic place to work at every stage of my career.
The level of expertise within each team is second to none and to having the opportunity to learn from market leaders in their field is invaluable. Aside from this, the team at Davidson McDonnell are inclusive, approachable and always up for a laugh, making the workplace an enjoyable place to be each day."
