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Sparke Helmore Lawyers

4.2
  • 500 - 1,000 employees

Sparke Helmore Lawyers Reviews

Based on 9 surveyed graduates working at Sparke Helmore Lawyers. Read on to get an insider’s view on life as a graduate.
4.2
Based on 9 reviews

Pros & Cons

  • People and culture - almost everyone is very down to earth and genuine. Always happy to help out when needed. Flexibility is also great in terms of working from home/ in the office. My team specifically is very hands off which I thoroughly enjoy as it feels that I am trusted to do my work independently.
  • I have found Sparkes to be an inclusive, collaborative and innovative company, creating an enjoyable and motivating work environment. I'm surrounded by interesting, authentic colleagues and leaders, and am feel incredibly lucky to be part of an amazing graduate cohort who quickly became a supportive and tightly-knit group this year.
  • My colleagues are very knowledgeable but equally down to earth and approachable. They are great at finding and offering me opportunities for professional development. I have a great network of graduates with whom I can lean on for support and enjoy social time.
  • The people are the best part about Sparkes, especially the professional indemnity team. Everyone is kind and helpful, and there is so many opportunities to learn and grow. It makes such a difference. I've been at another law firm in the past and it was a breath of fresh air to not be in a toxic environment. Even though there is always alot of work to do, everyone works together as a team which helps to alleviate feelings of stress and strengthen the feeling of being supported.
  • The culture and people!
  • Like any job in law, there are stressful periods at Sparkes when managing deadlines and dealing with clients, however I have always found every one to be very supportive and understanding, particularly during the graduate program where there is a genuine appreciation of the fact that we are still learning.
  • The salary is on the low side compared to other firms and there are some resourcing issues.
  • Dissatisfaction with pay is a common complaint
  • I can't really identify any drawbacks to be honest. I've had a really positive experience. If I had to pick something, I would say and this is not something I have experienced, but I know in some other teams, there are periods where people will have to stay back late - although this happens on occasion and not usual. I think Sparkes is very good at accommodating and promoting a balanced lifestyle which is what many students are after.
  • The pay is lower than other firms.

What Insiders Say

7.4
Career Prospects
7.4
Career Prospects
There's always room to grow and I can see the different promotion avenues available.
8.2
Corporate Social Responsibility
8.2
Corporate Social Responsibility
There is a lot of pro bono work and I have had the opportunity to go on secondment and support legal centres which was an amazing experience.
9.1
Culture
9.1
Culture
I think the people are the biggest attraction about Sparkes. There are great people and everyone is there to help. I feel comfortable approaching my supervising partner and senior associates which is nice. I was nervous at first but I eventually realised that they were always so nice and helpful.
8.4
Diversity
8.4
Diversity
Big emphasis on diversity and are so accommodating and always emphasis that it is their priority.
8.0
Satisfaction
8.0
Satisfaction
I feel that I am given opportunities and work that would not be offered to junior team members at other firms.
8.6
Management
8.6
Management
Leadership is very approachable. Even the National Managing Partner can often be found chatting with staff in the shared kitchen at lunch time. We also have an annual mentoring program which has given me some great tips and advice.
7.8
Office Work Environment
7.8
Office Work Environment
Very convenient location. Our building offers great events and discounts.
9.2
Recruitment
9.2
Recruitment
Very relaxed and real. It felt like the firm really wanted to get to know me and I was given the opportunity to really get to know the firm before accepting the role. They were practical like how to prioritise tasks, take on multiple responsibilities and balance competing deadlines. Share your personal experiences even if it is not legal related (e.g. if you worked in retail/volunteer, be sure to mention it because they value that - they take a holistic approach to recruitment).
6.7
Salary
6.7
Salary
Pay is good. I think it's only when I compare it with the big 6 firms that I realise the big difference in pay. However, I guess the balanced lifestyle makes up for it. Free dinners and drinks
7.1
Training
7.1
Training
There is always support available and we can reach out to the management team if we want to undertake additional training.
8.4
Work Hours
8.4
Work Hours
It is extremely rare for me to work late. I am not expected to work beyond my usual hours except in the rare event of urgent/last minute deadlines. The firm has a flexible working environment, but this does depend on which team/partner you work for.
7.4
Sustainability
7.4
Sustainability