A prominent regional law firm has achieved a prestigious national ranking, cementing its reputation as a top destination for aspiring solicitors. Wilkin Chapman Rollits has been placed in the top 10 of the Chambers Student 2026 Guide, securing a spot in its coveted 'Elite' category.
What the 'Elite' Ranking Means
The Chambers Student Guide is considered the definitive benchmark for assessing the quality of training contracts at UK law firms. Its annual rankings are based on comprehensive research, including in-depth interviews and surveys with current trainees and newly qualified solicitors. Firms are rigorously judged on criteria such as the standard of work placements, the quality of training, and the professional development opportunities provided to their future lawyers.
For Wilkin Chapman Rollits—formed last year through the merger of Grimsby-based Wilkin Chapman LLP and Hull's Rollits—this 'Elite' status places it alongside several international competitors. The guide's independent assessment highlighted the firm's particular strengths in trainee satisfaction, supervision, and contact time. It noted that trainees are entrusted with early responsibility on live cases, enjoy direct access to senior lawyers, and have the chance to contribute to high-profile projects within supportive teams.
A Culture Built on Support and Development
Lisa Boileau, lead training partner and private client divisional head at Wilkin Chapman Rollits, said the recognition directly reflects the firm's daily culture. "We are incredibly proud to offer a training contract that combines high-quality, hands-on legal work with supervision that is genuinely accessible and invested in across all levels," she stated.
"Being ranked in the 'Elite' tier by Chambers Student, and in the top 10 firms nationally for trainee satisfaction, is an endorsement of our culture and of the people across the firm who support our trainees to ensure they can truly flourish. We are wholly committed to developing homegrown talent in Lincolnshire and Yorkshire."
The firm's training contracts cover both private client and business services work. Trainees typically complete four six-month placements, gaining experience in at least one contentious and one non-contentious legal area. They also have opportunities to work across the firm's multiple offices in Grimsby, Lincoln, Louth, Hull, Beverley, and York.
Meaningful Work and Clear Guidance
Angela English, learning and development business associate at Wilkin Chapman Rollits, emphasised the firm's practical approach. "Our method is built around providing trainees with meaningful work, clear guidance, and the confidence to develop quickly," she commented.
"We are delighted that the feedback gathered independently by The Chambers Student Guide reflects the excellence that we strive to deliver. This well-deserved success belongs to our trainees, and to the supervisors and colleagues across the firm who invest their time and energy into supporting them."
This top-tier ranking underscores the firm's successful merger and its strong focus on nurturing legal talent within the regions it serves, offering a compelling alternative to city-centric training programmes.
