Byrne Wallace Shields

The firm also has leading expertise in banking & financial services, tax, technology/data privacy, infrastructure/energy projects, EU/competition law, and a notable public sector practice (advising government departments and local authorities)​. Clients range from blue-chip companies and banks to start-ups and state bodies, reflecting the firm’s full-service span. One day you might be on a financing or procurement deal for a renewable energy project; the next, researching points of EU law for a competition filing.

Trainee intake is around 15-20 per year, so you’ll be joining a sizable peer group. Legal Cheek understands that BWS offers competitive trainee salaries, in the €30,000s to low €40,000s – with around €65k for NQs – though they don’t publish figures. Beyond salary, trainees begin with 22 days annual leave (with extra days accruing with service) with all bank holidays. There’s a pension plan and health insurance support – plus BWS maternity and paternity leave provisions including paid parental leave days for new parents.

BWS emphasises structured training, kicking off with a two-week induction program when you start. Over two years, trainees rotate four seats – about six months per seat, with exposure to both transactional and contentious work. A typical rotation plan might include corporate/M&A, commercial litigation, property, and employment, with opportunities to request where possible (business needs allowing) in areas like banking; infrastructure, construction, and energy; or health services​. The goal is a well-rounded legal education – by the time you qualify, you’ll have worked on deals, cases, and advisory projects across the board and to be informed about the seat you’ll qualify into. Expect regular in-house seminars, business skills workshops, and external courses (like the PPC). All trainees will be paired with a senior solicitor mentor​ – there to guide your development, answer questions, and ensure you’re accessing the right opportunities.

This extends to BWS’ atmosphere – partners are known to have an open-door policy and take a genuine interest in trainees’ progress. Feedback is regular, both informally and through formal reviews each rotation, so you know what you’re doing well and where to improve. Responsibility comes early – that can mean drafting contracts, attending client meetings, helping to prepare court bundles, or even running parts of smaller transactions under supervision.

Day-to-day culture at BWS is professional yet friendly and inclusive. The fact that many current BWS partners started at the firm as trainees themselves means they remember what it’s like to be junior and are invested in mentoring the next generation. Trainee-led initiatives are common – whether it’s forming a tag rugby team or organising a Friday drinks meetup, there’s always something happening. And because BWS isn’t so large that people become anonymous, trainees get to know colleagues in other departments too, building a real community feel. Lawyers enjoy free coffee and tea in the office and often free snacks or fruit in the kitchens. BWS also reimburses Law Society fees and course costs for trainees, and provides the required study leave for exam prep – so you’re financially supported through the qualification process. Discount schemes are in place too (e.g. corporate gym membership rates, local business discounts around Dublin 2). And if you’re into cycling, the firm participates in the cycle-to-work tax scheme and has secure bike storage and shower facilities on-site.

When it comes to social life, BWS walks the talk on having fun. The firm’s Sports & Social Committee ensures there are many events throughout the year. Rookies can join in tag rugby, five-a-side football, golf outings, or even dodgeball tournaments – great for blowing off steam and mingling with colleagues from all levels​. BWS has a tradition of participation in charity walks/runs and fundraising coffee mornings, often led by trainees who champion a cause​. The firm-wide social calendar is a highlight: annual summer BBQs and a big Christmas party are staple events​. These gatherings usually have a great turnout – picture a sunny afternoon at a rented venue or rooftop with food, drinks, and maybe a friendly ping-pong competition; or a festive night in a hotel function room with Secret Santa exchange. Additionally, impromptu socialising happens organically: given the location, a quick drink at O’Donoghue’s or Café en Seine after work is an easy option.