Confidential career advice for qualified
lawyers, from NQ to Partner.
Honest advice. No pressure. No CV needed to start.
A career move isn’t simply about finding another job. It’s about understanding what you want to change, where you want your career to go and which firms can genuinely offer the right environment for you.
We work with qualified lawyers from NQ to Partner level, offering a clear view of the market and making carefully considered introductions. We’ll help you assess the role, team, culture, progression and package, including the factors that aren’t always visible in a job description.
You’ll remain in control throughout. We won’t send your CV anywhere without your agreement, and we’ll give you an honest view, including when we think an opportunity isn’t right.
If you’re considering a move, you don’t need a finished CV or a firm decision. A confidential conversation is enough to start.
What you can
expect from us
A Clear Market View
Understand where your experience could take you.
We’ll give you a realistic view of demand for your experience, likely salary levels and the firms or teams that may suit you. We’ll also be honest when we believe staying where you are could be the better decision.
Unadvertised Opportunities
Not every appointment begins with a published vacancy.
Some firms speak to us before advertising, while others will consider a strong lawyer even when there is no formal vacancy. Where appropriate, we can make a confidential and targeted approach on your behalf.
Career Planning
Make the right move at the right time.
We’ll help you consider what your next move should achieve and how different options could affect your longer-term career. An initial conversation may confirm that moving now isn’t the right answer.
Offer Advice
Assess more than the headline salary.
We’ll help you evaluate the salary, bonus, benefits, targets, flexibility, work and progression together. Where appropriate, we’ll manage negotiations carefully and represent your priorities clearly.
Inside Knowledge
Look beyond the job description.
We speak regularly with hiring Partners and recruitment teams. We can explain why a firm is recruiting, how the team operates and what its work, leadership, progression and hybrid arrangements look like in practice.
Selective Representation
Your details remain under your control.
We’ll discuss every firm and opportunity with you before making an introduction. Your CV will never be circulated speculatively or sent anywhere without your agreement.
Interview Preparation
Approach every meeting properly informed.
We’ll help you understand the firm, team and interviewers, identify the strongest examples from your experience and prepare useful questions so you can assess the opportunity as well as present yourself effectively.
No CV Needed
Start with a confidential conversation.
Start with a confidential conversation.
Live Legal Jobs
Explore a selection of our current opportunities for qualified lawyers. Not every role we work on is advertised, so it’s worth speaking with us even if nothing listed feels quite right.
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
You can send a CV if that’s easiest, but you don’t need one to start. Most candidates prefer a quick, confidential call first, then we’ll only send your CV anywhere with your approval.
Get in touch for a discreet conversation, and you don’t need a CV to start.
- 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 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
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 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
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 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.
Construction Associate
Nick was amazing in helping me secure my NQ role. He was always quick to answer any queries I had and gave great advice at every stage. I would definitely recommended Nick and Thornton Legal to anyone wanting to make a move.
Family Associate
Nick is great. From day one, his communication was on point and within a matter or minutes he was able to suggest options, touch on potential job opportunities and guide me through the interview process so that I could put my best foot forward. After day 1, I interviewed, got the role and job was done. Highly recommended.
Real Estate Solicitor - Liverpool
Nick was a big help in me securing an NQ role. I would recommend Thornton Legal to any trainee looking for NQ options.
Real Estate Associate - Liverpool
I can't recommend Nick and Thornton Legal highly enough. When the decision arose as to whether or not to leave Brabners, my firm of 16 years, I didn't know where to begin. I had an idea of what I didn't want but less of an idea of what I did.
I decided to approach Nick having known him for many years and having respected the work he and Joe were doing in the city.
Nick was thorough and understanding. We chatted my situation through in great detail and he flagged various opportunities that may be available to me. Without Nick, I would have had no idea those opportunities existed.
The process was long and arduous at times. Partner moves can be big decisions for both the individual and the firm. Nick guided me through the process and very much made it feel as though we were working as a team.
Nick fed back regularly and discussed things with me from all angles. He was very patient and I never felt that there was any hard sell. His view was that the fit must be right for both sides.
Once it was decided that it was, Nick helped guide me through the negotiations with my new firm and advised me on the exit from my old firm.
There is no doubt that Nick made a huge and potentially scary move a much safer and more comfortable process for me.
Family Partner - Liverpool
It can be genuinely difficult to find a recruiter in this sector who you feel actually cares about you and isn’t just in it for the commission, but Jack does. He’s super communicative, I found that he checked in with me regularly, and took the time to get to know my needs which he combined with his local knowledge to make sure my future move could be the right one. I would recommend Jack to anyone looking for a new role!
Commercial Property Solicitor - Manchester
Jack has been absolutely amazing! From start to finish he’s been a mentor and a friend; super helpful, friendly, supportive, informative and provides genuine honest advice.
I would 100% recommend Jack.
Commercial Property Solicitor - Chester
Joe has an impressive attention to detail when matching existing and upcoming job specifications to his client’s requirements. Joe provided helpful, personalised advice at every stage of the process.
Real Estate Associate - London
Joe took the time to understand my circumstances, career goals and skill-set, and only presented opportunities that we’re a good match. He was patient and provided valuable guidance, keeping me informed and prepared throughout my job search. I’ve now started my new job, and I couldn’t be happier. I would highly recommend him Joe to any lawyer looking to change firms.
Private Client Senior Associate - Chester
Nick was a great help in finding me a new role in Liverpool. He's got such great knowledge of and connections in the Liverpool legal scene and guided me through the process from the search to the interview, offer and negotiation. He was professional and gave honest, balanced advice without any pressure and was an absolute joy to work with. I would not hesitate to recommend him and Thornton Legal.
Corporate Associate - Liverpool
I had a fantastic experience working with Jack as my recruiter. From the very beginning, he was helpful, attentive, and genuinely invested in my success. He took the time to understand my background, career goals, and preferences, and consistently kept me updated throughout the process. Jack connected me with some truly great opportunities that aligned perfectly with what I was looking for. His professionalism and support made the entire job search experience smooth and encouraging. I highly recommend Jack to anyone looking for a dedicated and insightful recruiter!
Immigration Solicitor - Manchester
Jack has been absolutely amazing! From start to finish he’s been a mentor and a friend; super helpful, friendly, supportive, informative and provides genuine honest advice.
I would 100% recommend Jack
Real Estate Solicitor - Chester
It can be genuinely difficult to find a recruiter in this sector who you feel actually cares about you and isn’t just in it for the commission, but Jack does. He’s super communicative, I found that he checked in with me regularly, and took the time to get to know my needs which he combined with his local knowledge to make sure my future move could be the right one. I would recommend Jack to anyone looking for a new role!
Real Estate Finance Solicitor - Manchester
Joe went above and beyond to support me during my search. It wasn’t just about sending my CV around, he actually took the time to discuss what was important to me, which firms would align with that, and where I’d be happiest in the long run. When the offer came through, he negotiated on my behalf and made sure everything was right. I’m really grateful for his guidance and couldn’t have asked for a better recruiter.
