Get Hired - Find Law Jobs
We consult, support and advise, but ultimately, the choice is always yours. Why not get in touch and start the conversation about your next legal role?
We provide a fully consultative service as opposed to a simple CV sending agency. We aim to meet legal professionals open to a move to find out exactly what makes them tick, which puts us in the best position to match the right lawyer to the right law firm. We also understand the importance of confidentiality and, for that reason, we are always available beyond 5pm for a phone call or a coffee.
Everyone has different career goals, so we tailor our service to suit each individual lawyer we work with. We promise to be by your side every step of the way, guiding and coaching you through the entire job move process.
Reasons to
Work With Us
Career Advice
We’ll guide, support and help decision making through your career.
We have the experience to offer you a fresh perspective, giving valuable insight into career progression tactics, salary expectations, retrain opportunities or general advice on the job market. Many of those we work with benefit from being presented with job opportunities that they wouldn’t have considered without the benefit of our input and advice.
Time Saving
Job hunting is hard work and can be stressful, let us help.
Identifying and pursuing the right job opportunities is often a time consuming and frustrating process for candidates. Scouring the internet for jobs, making multiple applications for roles and chasing up feedback, often in the evenings, can take up valuable time best spent doing other things.
Inside Knowledge
We often know where the jobs before they go to the open market.
At Thornton Legal we invest a lot of time developing and maintaining relationships with law firms and networking. We have the ear of Partners and HR Managers and are aware of opportunities that either aren’t being advertised or are being recruited for exclusively by one or two trusted recruiters.
Quick Market Access
We’ll put CV in front of the right people.
We have expert industry knowledge, giving you the best possible chance of a successful job search. We know who is recruiting, at what level and have detailed information about a role/firm that may not be obvious from a website. We always try and meet hiring clients, so we can share information that others won’t have access to. All very helpful in a successful interview process.
CV Preparation
A CV sells you and it’s got to be right.
Your CV is your own personal sales document that will help to sell your skills and secure your perfect job. It’s worth spending some time on it and we’ll give you as much help as you need including tailoring it to specific opportunities.
Offer Negotiation
It’s in our interests to get you the best offer possible.
Negotiating your own salary directly can cause all manner of problems if done badly. Salary negotiation is best left to somebody who is experienced in handling it in a sensitive and effective way. Offers can sometimes be much lower than expected and on occasions asking for too much can alienate the other party and result in a fatal breakdown in negotiations - we can demonstrate a high success rate of offers being accepted
Moral Support
We will be with you every step of the way.
At Thornton Legal we will support you through the entire recruitment journey, advising you at the right times but also giving you the headspace to think clearly without unnecessary and undue influence.
We Come Recommended
Something we are really proud of.
Over the years we’ve received many positive testimonials, recommendations and reviews from recruiting partners and candidates, giving you reassurance that we can be trusted with your hiring or job search.
Live Legal Jobs
Everyone has different career goals, so we tailor our service to suit each individual candidate we work with and promise to be by your side every step of the way - guiding and coaching you through the entire job move process.
Refer a Friend
Do you know a friend or colleague who might be looking for a move? Referrals are a great way to help your network in their job search and are something we like to show our thanks for.
If we place somebody recommended to us, we will pay up to £250 worth of John Lewis or Amazon vouchers to the person who made the introduction.
If you do know anybody looking for a new job in the law, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Alternatively, just ask them to call us and mention your name and we will honour the same commitment to pay.
* The only conditions are that the person recommended isn’t already a registered candidate and that they stay in the job for more than 1 month after joining
Submit Your CV
Please send us your CV using the form below and one of the team will come back to you to arrange a time for a confidential conversation.
If you would rather talk first then just give us a call.
- Liverpool 0151 305 5757
- Manchester 0161 694 0004
- Leeds 0113 323 0777
Candidate Testimonials
View All Testimonials
I have entrusted Nick on a number of occasions and I’ve always been impressed with his knowledge of the legal industry, the bespoke and personal service that he provides and his ability to consistently achieve a positive outcome for his clients (whether that be a candidate or employer). I would not hesitate to recommend Nick (and Thornton Legal), even if just for an exploratory chat, it’s always enlightening and informative.
Commercial Litigation Solicitor
I've done business with Thornton Legal a few times over the years and I'm always impressed by their industry knowledge as well as their professionalism, they're a step up from most legal recruiters. Most recently I've been dealing with Laura-Kate who I'm pleased to say has been excellent. Dealing with recruitment agencies and the 'high pressure' tactics often employed by many of them can be daunting experience, but working with Kate and Thornton Legal has been a pleasure.
Residential Property Solicitor
Laura-Kate was very helpful in helping to arrange the interview and accommodate dates with quick communication between all parties. Her insight into the firm was very helpful in deciding this was the right opportunity for myself and subsequent assistance post-interview helped to liaise with the firm in a strange situation which saw me offered a different position to the one I applied for.
Property Litigation Paralegal
I would not hesitate to recommend Nick. When I decided to explore my options, he was knowledgeable, helpful and secured me an interview for the job I really wanted at Jackson Lees. He kept me informed throughout the process and was a great sounding board when I had questions.
Court of Protection Solicitor
Through various networking events, I’ve known Joe for several years as a well-respected legal recruiter. When I made the decision to consider a job move, I was confident that Joe would be able to help. I was right. He was professional, friendly and knowledgeable, and a very useful sounding board. Overall it was great working with Joe, and I highly recommend him.
Family - Associate Solicitor
Joe and the team we’re excellent from start to finish. The quality of advice and assistance was first rate, with several interviews lined up at some great firms. Things are going really well at DAC Beachcroft, thanks for all your help! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Thornton Legal.
Real Estate Solicitor
Joe has been helpful, friendly, supportive and knowledgeable the whole way through the difficult process of deciding whether making a move was the right decision for me. He did not place any pressure on me but provided me with opportunities that I would have otherwise been unable to unlock. He had the connections to help place me in a very specialist team of which there none equal to in Shrewsbury. Thank you Joe for your help and support throughout.
Contentious Probate Solicitor
I have worked with other recruiters in the past but Joe was a real breath of fresh air! He was patient, listened to my (fairly specific) requirements and was not at all pushy in terms of putting me forward for roles. I felt confident that he fully understood what I wanted from a new firm and what wasn't right for me. He always kept me in the loop during the interview process and was obviously very knowledgeable about the Shrewsbury legal market. I would not hesitate to recommend Joe to someone thinking about making a move.
Private Client - Senior Associate
I am very happy to say that my experience with the entire team at Thornton Legal , was very positive. In particular, Nick Tappin looked after me very well. He was my main contact and I found him to be very approachable, knowledgeable and professional. His good reputation and connections within the market were obvious and beneficial. I have no hesitation in recommending Nick and the team.
Senior Associate - Employment
I really enjoyed working with Nick. He assisted me throughout the interview and negotiation process at Freeths, and was always available to consult. He provided me with updates on regular basis that put me at ease and made the whole process easier.
Real Estate Solicitor
Nick and Thornton Legal were so supportive when I decided to relocate and move firms recently. It was a daunting prospect as I had been with my previous firm for a long time but I knew it was the right time for a move; Nick understood completely and put me at ease right from our first phone call. Nick with me every step of the way until I found a firm that was the perfect fit for me. I couldn't recommend Thornton Legal enough.
Property Litigation Associate
Identifying the right firm to start your career as an NQ is a big challenge but Joe did a brilliant job in helping me to secure an NQ opportunity in the corporate team at a leading international firm. He was supportive, knowledgeable and always available to talk to and offer honest and helpful advice. I’m excited to have now started with Pinsent Masons, and I’m grateful to Joe for his help at a pivotal stage in my career.
Corporate Solicitor
Joe was great to work with from start to finish. He took the time to understand me and what was looking for as a newly qualified solicitor, and he managed to match me to just the right opportunity. I have been with Schofield Sweeny for almost 12 months, and I’m really pleased with the move I made. I’d happy recommend Joe to anyone looking for a new job in the legal profession.
Commercial Property Solicitor
Being newish to the industry I have always been dubious of using recruiters to apply for a new role and been advised against it. However, Laura-Kate has been fantastic throughout. She fully listened to what my ideal role would be and found me the perfect job. I would thoroughly recommend Laura and Thornton Legal and would like to thank her for her guidance and support, wish I'd been in contact with her sooner! Thanks so much Laura and FYI Gamlins is the most welcoming firm I have worked with so far!
Private Client Paralegal
When I decided it was time to make a move, I knew Thornton Legal would be the recruiters to talk to, and I was impressed that they quickly organised several interviews. The opportunity at Irwin Mitchell was the best fit and the one I eventually accepted. Their advice and support made the process a positive experience, and I’m delighted with the move I’ve made. Thornton Legal come highly recommended by me.
Associate - Real Estate
After working with another recruiter for a period of time, I approached Joe at Thornton Legal for some additional assistance. He was quickly able to identify a number of potential opportunities and within a couple of weeks secured an interview for me which lead to an offer, which I was delighted to accept. Joe was helpful with the finer detail of the offer negotiation and was a pleasure to work with. Thanks for all of your help, Joe!
Dispute Resolution - Senior Associate
I found working with Joe easy and straightforward. He was knowledgeable about the Leeds legal scene and we only talked about opportunities that were a match for what I was looking for. The level of communication was spot on and I never felt pressured to make a quick decision. Thanks for all your help, highly recommended.
Commercial Litigation Solicitor
I've done business with Thornton Legal a few times over the years and I'm always impressed by their industry knowledge as well as their professionalism, they're a step up from most legal recruiters. Most recently I've been dealing with Laura-Kate who I'm pleased to say has been excellent. Dealing with recruitment agencies and the 'high pressure' tactics often employed by many of them can be daunting experience, but working with Kate and Thornton Legal has been a pleasure.
Residential Property Solicitor
I found Laura-Kate a pleasure to work with. Laura-Kate was very proactive and informative. Within a couple of days of our initial call to investigate what areas I was interested in and where I would be suited she had organised interviews with great firms. I would highly recommend Laura-Kate to anyone interested in changing roles.
Commercial Property Paralegal
Laura-Kate has been amazing in helping me find my first legal job since finishing university. After finding jobs that she thought I would be suitable for she put my name forward and then I was constantly kept in the loop with updates at each stage of the process. Even after getting the job, Laura-Kate checked in with me to check I was ready and with general reassurances. I was helped with interview preparation and given tips and then was helped transition as smoothly as possible into my new job.
Family Paralegal
I've had an excellent experience with Joe at Thornton Legal. With his help I've secured a new job that's just what I was looking for. He was very professional, efficient and knowledgeable, and the zoom interview preparation was really helpful. I would highly recommend his services to anyone looking for a change of job. Joe went above and beyond anything that I have experienced in the past with recruiters.
Commercial Litigation Solicitor
Laura-Kate is an incredible legal recruiter. After putting me forward for a fantastic role, she consistently kept me up-to-date during the interview process, ensuring I was kept in the loop and comfortable with any interview preparation. She is professional, reliable and supportive. Ultimately, she provided me with a rare opportunity, and from that, I landed my dream corporate role in an outstanding and reputable law firm. I cannot recommend her and Thornton Legal Recruitment enough.
Corporate Paralegal
The opportunity to become a Solicitor does not come easy and deciding where to qualify is an extremely difficult decision. The importance of knowing your options is something I would recommend to anyone. Joe was very attentive, honest and helpful throughout. Offering many phone calls to go through each option outlining the positives and negatives. I would highly recommend his services to anyone who is open to opportunity. I now work at one of the biggest law firms in the country and I am extremely thankful to Joe for the opportunities he provided.
Court of Protection Solicitor
Nick helped me secure my role at DTM Legal. He was a great help and knows the private client market well. I would definitely recommend him when it comes to recruitment.
Private Client - Senior Associate
I recently used Thornton Legal to help me secure a role at Hill Dickinson. Nick is well connected in Liverpool and has a good grasp on the market. I would not hesitate in recommending him to others.
Heathcare Litigation Associate
When I recently applied for a retrain opportunity, I applied via two recruitment agencies. The first agency rejected me at CV level without even a telephone call. Laura-Kate recognised my skills and called me to obtain further information. Laura-Kate was professional and personable, really understanding what was needed for the role and what I could offer. I ultimately got the job and would like to thank Laura-Kate and Thornton Legal for their tenacity and making the whole thing a stress free experience from start to finish.
Court of Protection Solicitor
Joe is very knowledgeable of the legal market and I found his advice and support invaluable during my job search. Moving jobs is a big decision, but Joe made the process less daunting and gave me all the information and support I needed to make an informed decision without putting on any pressure.
Residential Property Solicitor
I have now used the services of Joe and Nick twice, and I highly recommended them both to anyone looking for a new job. The service they provide is efficient, professional and effective, and it’s obvious they have an excellent relationship with their clients. The package they negotiated met my expectations, and I’m really pleased with the move I’ve made. Thank you both.
Family Solicitor
When I approached Joe to assist with my job search I was unsure what to expect, not least because my criteria to move was specific and we were in the middle of the Pandemic. Joe was understanding of my situation and gave me confidence that I would be able to find the right position. Within a week Joe had arranged a number of interviews which I was really pleased about. He kept in regular contact and was always available to talk, whether before work or in the evening. The position I eventually accepted was with Cullimore Dutton as a Legal Director, and things are going really well. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a new legal position.
Legal Director - Property Litigation
Joe helped me find a new solicitor role in the summer of 2023. He understood my priorities completely, actively listened to my concerns and followed up on my questions. He always responded quickly and kept me updated throughout. I now work in a lovely team with better pay and a shorter commute, which is fantastic. Thank you Joe.
Family Solicitor
Thanks again for all your help with getting me to where I am. It has not always been easy but you’ve made the process far better than it could have been. I’d certainly recommend you to other potential candidates. Professional and pleasure to deal with through out.
Family Partner
I’ve had a very positive experience working with Joe. He quickly understood my experience and circumstances, and the process from interview to accepting the offer from Mills and Reeve was dealt with professionally and efficiently. Many thanks to Joe and the team at Thornton Legal.
Construction Lawyer
Nick had the great ability to put me at ease throughout the NQ job hunting process. He was particularly good at interview preparation and mirroring my characteristics with specific job opportunities. I will always be very grateful for the assistance Nick gave me and I would recommend Nick to any junior/NQ solicitor looking for a new role.
Private Client Solicitor
I would highly recommend Nick if you’re considering a move. The guys provide support and advice every step of the way and helped me to think outside of the box. Worth getting in touch for a chat even if you’re not actively looking for a move.
Corporate Senior Associate
I could not recommend Laura-Kate enough. I approached her to help me find a paralegal job and she could not have been more friendly and helpful. She made me feel at ease at every step of the job application process from reviewing my CV to helping me prep for an interview and she had no problem doing all of this face to face as I was quite nervous. If you are looking for someone to work with you in finding a job that best suits your needs and wants, I would certainly recommend Laura-Kate.
Family Paralegal
I found Nick to be really helpful throughout the process. He provided accurate information upfront and came back quickly with answers to any queries I had. I would definitely recommend.
