As competitive as it is to secure a vacation scheme, it can still be competitive to get a training contract offer following the scheme. There is a common misconception that not converting a scheme to a training contract will hinder your future attempts, but this is largely false.
There are many variables when it comes to how law firms view re-sitting exams. These variables include the reasons for the re-sits, what qualification it is for, the grade difference, and any mitigating circumstances.
Multi-jurisdictional. Cross-border. International. These characteristics define many of the world’s top commercial law firms, so it is vital that you demonstrate a global mindset in your applications.
When there are upwards of 10,000 law firms in the UK alone, knowing what to look for when application season comes around can be a daunting prospect.
An integral element in most assessment centres is a case study interview. These can be difficult to prepare for but offer a great opportunity to demonstrate your capability! The following are just some of the skills that are likely to be tested during the interview:
Anyone who has submitted an application for a law firm knows that the process can be a daunting one. There are often multiple stages, all requiring you to perform different tasks and skills and the competition is often very high. However, it is likely that you are in fact the kind of candidate they are looking for; you just need to show them this!
Whether you enjoy them or not, group exercises are key to succeeding at an assessment centre. Recruiters typically use group work exercises as a means to assess candidates within a team setting. These exercises can range from a discussion-based exercise, to a role play exercise, or to a practical exercise. Regardless, they are notoriously hard to prepare for as you will never know what to expect! Nevertheless, there is no need to worry.
For those entering the legal profession, the possibility of a good work/life balance is usually accepted as unattainable. The legal profession has long had the reputation of extensive hours with little to no downtime. Whilst many have accepted this as an unavoidable aspect of a legal career, it seems that things are changing.
A video interview can be a very strange experience. Suited and booted, alone in your room and talking into your laptop about why captaining your university football team makes you the perfect candidate for a vacation scheme: not your typical Tuesday afternoon. In such a setup it can be easy to forget that there will be a real person watching your answers, but it is important that you show your personality and your best qualities so that you stand out from the crowd. Follow these 5 top tips to prepare yourself for success and show your best self when the camera is rolling...
“Why do you want to be a commercial lawyer” is a question that all aspiring lawyers should expect to be asked at some point on their journey to securing a training contract at a commercial firm. This question holds even more significance when targeted at someone who did not study law at university as firms need to be sure that their trainees are committed to the legal profession. A carefully thought-out answer that pinpoints the advantages of your non-law background will make you a stronger candidate.