Trainee Legal Executive – Real Estate

Trainee Legal Executive – Real Estate Overview

This is an opportunity to join a leading Real Estate team as a trainee legal executive, with the work centred on a specialist area involving The Crown Estate and land that has escheated to the Crown, alongside a broader mix of commercial property matters. The position is designed to give practical legal experience and help build a deeper understanding of the legal profession. You would work with experienced lawyers advising a varied client base that includes The Crown Estate, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, major lenders, and water utility providers.

The firm says that, after a successful six-month trial period, the chosen candidate will be supported through the CILEx qualification route. The role is permanent and based in Bristol.

What you will do

• Prepare first drafts of legal documents, letters, and reports for a supervisor to review.
• Review title documents, plans, and property search results, then pull out and summarise the key points.
• Carry out due diligence work on transactions and property matters.
• Support completions and the work that follows completion, including Land Registry applications.
• Research legal issues and produce summaries of relevant legal updates and developments.
• Deal with client queries and provide progress updates when needed.
• Manage document production and keep matter records accurate and current.
• Track critical dates and contractual milestones so they are properly recorded and monitored.
• Help with business development activity, including organising events, preparing marketing materials, and updating contact databases.
• Open new files by completing conflict checks, anti-money laundering checks, identity verification, and know-your-client procedures, and by preparing engagement documents.
• Support billing and wider financial administration, including fee updates, cost estimates, and invoice production.

What the firm is looking for

• A genuine interest in real estate and a working understanding of law; the successful applicant will have studied law or be studying it now.
• Strong attention to detail and a disciplined, methodical approach.
• The ability to read legal material, interpret it accurately, and identify the important issues.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage several competing priorities.
• Calmness under pressure and the ability to work to tight deadlines when required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Confidence in building productive relationships with colleagues and clients at different levels and across different disciplines.
• A proactive, collaborative mindset and a willingness to learn and develop.

About the team and firm

You would be joining Burges Salmon’s market-leading Real Estate practice. The firm describes itself as an ambitious, independent UK law firm with a strong reputation for high-quality work and excellent client service. It highlights its collaborative culture, its commitment to responsible business, and its focus on helping people achieve their potential.

The firm also points to external recognition, including Investors in People Platinum accreditation, being voted by its people as RollOnFriday’s Best Law Firm to Work at 2026 for the fifth year running, and being named Law Firm of the Year at The Legal Business Awards 2025.

Additional information

The firm says it values diversity and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds and identities. It also states that, as a Disability Confident employer, it will provide a fully accessible recruitment process.

For more information about the role, candidates can contact Chris Jenkinson by email. To apply, applicants should submit their CV and the requested information through the application link provided. The advert states that the vacancy closes on 24 July and encourages early applications.

Degree Requirement: Bachelor’s

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