2015 - 2016 seo application guide

8/19/2019 2015 - 2016 SEO Application Guide

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2015 – 2016 Application Guide

– General Tips &

Firm Information


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Contents

Application Tips 4

Addleshaw Goddard 8

CMS Cameron McKenna 9

Herbert Smith Freehills 10

Jones Day 12

K&L Gates 14

Kirkland & Ellis 16

Linklaters 17

Mayer Brown 19

Norton Rose Fulbright 21

Reed Smith 23

Shearman & Sterling 25

Simmons & Simmons 27

Travers Smith 29

Weil, Gotshal & Manges 31

Withers Worldwide 33

Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co 34


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Please note that this document should NOT be relied

upon solely. Candidates will be expected to confirm and

verify any information included through their own

research and it may change at any point. There is nosubstitute for doing your own research.

No part of this document may be copied, redistributed

or reproduced.

This document is only intended for the direct recipients.


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Application Tips

Your application form often gives firms their first impression of you, so never underestimate how

important it is. Competition for firm programmes is fierce, so how you communicate on paper and in

person is very important. Ask yourself the following questions before you apply:

Am I really interested in Corporate Law?

Do I have an interest in the global business world?

Do I want to work with international clients?

Am I flexible about my work patterns and location?

Am I interested in commercial stories in the press?

This should help you establish why you wish to pursue a career in Corporate Law, decide which types of

firms to apply to and focus your research.

Research & Preparation

Read the firm’s website, graduate recruitment site, brochure and social media sites as well as

articles on the firm to develop a good understanding of the work and culture.

Check each firm’s eligibility criteria and academic requirements carefully so that you are

aware of what you can apply for – this varies from firm to firm.

Read through the application process so that you are aware what to expect and can prepare

accordingly.

For each firm, think carefully about what they are looking for in a future trainee and how you

can demonstrate this in your application.

Make a list of key skills you think are essential for being a successful trainee at the firm and think

about what sets you apart from other applicants.

Industry, Firm & Role

Ensure you explain why you want to pursue a career in Corporate Law.

Ensure you explain why you want to train specifically at the firm – think about the culture, type

of training, type of work, international and client opportunities etc. Your application must be

tailored.

Ensure you clearly understand the role of a trainee and what it involves.

Tell firms about any exposure you have had to them – this will emphasise your commitment e.g.

mention if you have attended an SEO firm event, a firm presentation, a firm open day, or if you

have met any firm reps at a careers fair.

Do not quote the firm’s website/brochure material back to them – form your own opinions and

express your interest in the firm in your own words.

Commercial Awareness

You are applying to firms who will expect you to know about the world of business and the

issues that affect them and their clients. Firms look for people with enquiring minds and a

genuine interest in the world of international business.

Please bear this in mind for applications which ask you to discuss a topic in the press.


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Clients value lawyers who understand their commercial objectives to help them achieve their

commercial aims and goals.

Skills & Competencies

Do not just tell firms the skills you have, show them through varied examples.

When answering competency questions, you should include a mix of academic, extra-curricular, work experience (legal and non-legal) and other real life examples.

Consider what you have learned and the skills you have developed. For example, if you are

working as part of a team in a university committee or if you are juggling your academic studies

with employment, you will be demonstrating skills expected of a trainee e.g. communication

and time management. Firms want to know how you deal with everyday issues.

Think about the structure of your answers – ensure you explain the situation, task you were

given, action you took, result and what you learned (STAR technique).

Firms want to get to know you, so make sure your personality comes across.

Work Experience & Employment

Consider the work experience and employment you have undertaken – the main tasks, skills

developed and what you learnt.

Non-legal work experience and employment can also be relevant – think about the

transferable skills and knowledge relevant for a trainee role.

Completing the Application

Take the time to read it thoroughly to understand what each question is asking.

Save your application as you go along – it is a good idea to write your answers in a word

document so you have a copy.

Answer the question – this may sound obvious but some candidates completely miss the point

– it may help to break the question down, to ensure you cover all elements and structure your

answer.

Think whether there is any additional information about your requirements or circumstances

firms should be aware of – include this in the appropriate section to be taken into

consideration.

Similar questions may appear on different applications but avoid the temptation to cut and

paste answers from one to another. Follow the instructions – if the application form asks for a particular format, use it and make

sure you have read and understood all instructions.

Make the most of every part of the form – each section is important.

Grammar & Style

Attention to detail is paramount – remember to double-check all spelling and grammar.

Ensure consistency in writing style e.g. use of tenses.

Express yourself clearly and concisely – write in a professional tone and do not use jargon.

Show the qualities that would make you a great trainee – however do not come across asarrogant.


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Be honest and straightforward – DO NOT LIE, you will be caught out.

Write the firm’s name correctly and check whether any shortened version you may use is

permitted – be consistent.

Cover Letter Tips

A cover letter must be tailored to the firm. Take time to research the firm and understand what they arelooking for. Follow a clear structure.

1. Introduction – this should be a couple of sentences explaining who you are and what you are

applying for.

2. Why law – explain your reasons for choosing a career in law and why specifically Corporate Law.

3. Why the firm – this is about making it clear why you are specifically interested in the firm.

4. Why you – this is your chance to explain why you would make an ideal trainee at the firm and

the skills you have developed.

5. Conclusion – close with a couple of sentences that reaffirm your interest in the firm and your

suitability for the role.

ASSESSMENT TIPS

Some firms ask candidates to complete a range of tasks prior to interview or during an assessment

centre. These could include:

Critical Thinking Tests e.g. Watson Glaser

Verbal Reasoning Tests

Logical Reasoning Tests

Online Situational Judgement Tests

Online Tests

It may be helpful to practise some tests. Firms often have samples on their websites. Below are some

useful links:

http://www.shldirect.com/practice_tests.html

www.assessmentday.co.uk

http://www.psychometric-success.com/downloads/download-practice-tests.htm

Video Interviews

Some firms may ask candidates to undertake a video interview. Below is some advice on how to conduct

one:

Conduct your video interview in a tidy professional looking environment.

No inappropriate objects or posters should be visible.

There should be no background noise.

Be seated on a chair and be clearly visible.

At no point should the camera tilt or shake.

Treat this like a face to face interview – look at the camera not the screen.

Dress smartly.

Relax and smile as this will project positive energy.

Posture and gesture should project confidence and enthusiasm.

http://www.shldirect.com/practice_tests.htmlhttp://www.assessmentday.co.uk/http://www.psychometric-success.com/downloads/download-practice-tests.htmhttp://www.psychometric-success.com/downloads/download-practice-tests.htmhttp://www.assessmentday.co.uk/http://www.shldirect.com/practice_tests.html


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Speak clearly, calmly and confidently using a professional tone.

Structure your answers.

Ensure that you keep to time during the interview.


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Addleshaw Goddard

Milton Gate

60 Chiswell Street

London

EC1Y 4AG

www.addleshawgoddard.com

www.addleshawgoddard.com/graduates

[email protected]

Firm Information

Offices include: Dubai, Hong Kong, Leeds, London, Manchester, Oman, Qatar and Singapore.

Clients include: Barclays, HSBC, Aviva, Harrods, British Airways, Liverpool FC, Diageo, Kurt Geiger,

Primark, Travelodge Hotels, William Hill, AIG and Adidas.

Amongst the biggest firms in London, an undisputed leader in Yorkshire and rapidly expanding overseas,

Addleshaw Goddard is a growing force with an impressive portfolio of clients. Addleshaw Goddard ranks

as one of the country's top ten corporate advisers to FTSE 100 companies. It was formed on 1 May 2003

by the merger of Addleshaw Booth & Co with Theodore Goddard and has since grown both nationallyand internationally. The firm’s client portfolio is testament to its strength and range of expertise and

includes financial institutions, public sector bodies, successful businesses and private individuals. Spread

between Leeds, London and Manchester, the firm continues to maintain its TOOT ('Three Offices, One

Team') policy and divides its work into Corporate & Commercial, Litigation, Finance & Projects and Real

Estate.

Graduate Recruitment Programmes

These include:

2016 First Year Open Day – Leeds and London 2016 Easter Vacation Scheme – Leeds, London and Manchester

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme – Leeds, London and Manchester

2018 Training Contract – Leeds, London and Manchester

Please read the firm’s guidance and instructions on applications:

https://addleshawgoddardgrads.engageats.co.uk/LoginV2.aspx

Helpful Information – Hints & Tips

When viewing your application, recruiters are particularly keen to see: work experience,commerciality, understanding of the legal profession and teamwork.

Mention the innovative practices such as the in-house Transaction Service Team.

During the training contract, practical training is complemented by high-quality training courses

provided by both the in-house team and external training providers.

Trainees may have the opportunity to spend a seat in one of the firm’s other offices and there

are a number of secondments to clients available.

Addleshaw Goddard organises a trip to Romania for its incoming trainee group, along with four

or five partners to build houses for Homes for Humanity.

http://www.addleshawgoddard.com/http://www.addleshawgoddard.com/http://www.addleshawgoddard.com/graduateshttp://www.addleshawgoddard.com/graduatesmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://addleshawgoddardgrads.engageats.co.uk/LoginV2.aspxhttps://addleshawgoddardgrads.engageats.co.uk/LoginV2.aspxhttps://addleshawgoddardgrads.engageats.co.uk/LoginV2.aspxmailto:[email protected]://www.addleshawgoddard.com/graduateshttp://www.addleshawgoddard.com/


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CMS Cameron McKenna

Cannon Place

78 Cannon Street

London

EC4N 6AF

www.cms-cmck.com

www.graduates.cms-cmck.com

[email protected]

Offices include: Aberdeen, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Beijing, Bristol, Budapest, Casablanca, Dubai,

Edinburgh, Frankfurt, Geneva, Glasgow, Hamburg, Istanbul, Lisbon, London, Luxembourg, Mexico City,

Moscow, Munich, Muscat, Prague, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Shanghai, Strasbourg, Vienna, Warsaw and

Zurich.

Clients include: Amazon, National Grid, BP, British Gas, BT, Royal Mail, General Electric, Lloyds, Aviva

Investors and Sainsbury’s.

CMS is a global network of ten independent member firms – it is not a traditional firm. Together, these

employ 3,000 legal professionals in 58 offices across the world. CMS has a number of offices in the UK,including Aberdeen, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow. CMS's Corporate Team works at the high end of

the market – it was one of several firms to work on the £5.6bn Royal Mail initial public offering (IPO) –

but it also shines in the upper mid-market. CMS regularly completes deals in the £50m - £250m range,

and has a noteworthy focus on the energy, technology, and consumer and retail sectors. CMS has an

extensive footprint in Europe, an expanding network and focuses heavily on clients.


These include:

2016 Easter Vacation Scheme – London 2016 Summer Vacation Scheme – London, Bristol and Scotland

2018 Training Contract – London, Bristol and Scotland


Vacations Schemes: http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/vacation-schemes/

Training Contract: http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/training-contracts/


Recruiters look for leadership, interpersonal skills, teamwork, problem solving, commitmentand motivation.

Make sure you understand the firm’s unique network, as well as its international capabilities.

During the training contract, seats in either Corporate or Banking are compulsory, although an

overseas seat can satisfy this requirement too.

You will spend your second seat on secondment to a client, or to one of the firm’s regional or

international offices. Options include clients like Amazon or IBM, or international offices such

as Rio de Janeiro, Moscow or Prague.

http://www.cms-cmck.com/http://www.cms-cmck.com/http://www.graduates.cms-cmck.com/http://www.graduates.cms-cmck.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/vacation-schemes/http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/vacation-schemes/http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/vacation-schemes/http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/training-contracts/http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/training-contracts/http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/training-contracts/http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/vacation-schemes/mailto:[email protected]://www.graduates.cms-cmck.com/http://www.cms-cmck.com/


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Herbert Smith Freehills

Exchange House

London

EC2A 2EG3

www.herbertsmithfreehills.com

careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads

[email protected]

Offices include: Bangkok, Beijing, Belfast, Berlin, Brisbane, Brussels, Doha, Frankfurt, Hong Kong,

Jakarta, London, Madrid, Melbourne, Moscow, Paris, Perth, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney and

Tokyo.

Clients include: Apple, BSkyB, Transport for London, Daily Mail, Yell, UBS, Air New Zealand, BUPA, BP,

Rio Tinto, EY, Northern Foods, Cable & Wireless Worldwide, Cadbury, Bank of Dubai, EasyJet and HSBC.

As one of the world's leading law firms, Herbert Smith Freehills advise many of the biggest and most

ambitious organisations across all major regions of the globe. With more than 2,800 lawyers in offices

spanning Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and the USA, the firm is the eighth largest law firm in

the world and working across borders is at the heart of its philosophy. Herbert Smith Freehills’ Disputespractice is acknowledged as the number one in the UK and Asia and includes the firm’s leading

international arbitration practice and award winning in-house advocacy unit, offering a complete

litigation service and a realistic alternative to the bar. The firm is a market leader in Corporate with a

particular strength in the energy sector. Allied to this is a deep vein of quality that runs through its other

practice areas, including Finance, Competition, Regulation and Trade, Real Estate and Employment,

Pensions and Incentives. The firm also has specialist areas such as Intellectual Property and Tax.


These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme

2016 First Year Workshop

2016 Spring Vacation Scheme

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme

2018 Training Contract


https://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/join-us


The firm seeks people who understand the importance of building relationships with clients

and colleagues, as well as displaying an international mindset. Try and highlight this in your

application.

Herbert Smith Freehills is particularly keen to receive applications from candidates who have

business fluency in: Arabic, Cantonese, French, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and Russian.

The firm's key criteria for new hires includes: common sense, self-confidence and the

intelligence to make their own way in a large firm. Make sure you have examples to

demonstrate these key qualities and skills.

Candidates are advised to draw attention to any situation where they have led in some way or

taken responsibility.

http://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com/http://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com/http://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/http://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/join-ushttps://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/join-ushttps://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/join-usmailto:[email protected]://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/http://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com/


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The firm offers 100 vacation scheme places and around 80% obtain a training contract.

During the vacation scheme, you will sit in the same room as a partner or an associate and be

given work for clients.

You will be involved in workshops and presentations that provide an insight into the breadth

of Herbert Smith Freehills’ practice areas.

The Training Contract rotates between four six-month placements. You are likely to spend time

in Corporate and Dispute Resolution as well as Finance or Real Estate.

There are also a number of opportunities to spend a seat in one of Herbert Smith Freehills’

international offices or in-house with one of the firm’s clients.


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Jones Day

21 Tudor Street

London

EC4Y 0DJ

www.jonesday.com

[email protected]

Offices include: Atlanta, Beijing, Brussels, Cleveland, Dallas, Detroit, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles,Mexico City, Miami, Milan, Moscow, New York, Perth, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Saudi Arabia,

Shanghai, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo, and Washington.

Clients include: Procter and Gamble, BNP Paribas, Goldman Sachs, MasterCard, Citigroup, Starbucks,

BAE Systems, China Airlines, BlackBerry, Monster Energy Drinks and Toyota.

Jones Day is a truly global law firm – probably one of the most integrated in the world. The f irm’s

strengths in London reflect those of the firm: 200 London lawyers (including around 65 partners and 35

trainees) have a sophisticated understanding of risk and draw on specialist insights and skills from across

the globe to guide clients through their toughest challenges and most significant, corporate life

events. In London’s critical financial centre, Jones Day lawyers are perfectly placed to address the mostdemanding and complex global matters: cross-border M&A; Real Estate and finance transactions

(including Banking, Capital Markets, Investment Funds, Private Equity and Structured Finance); Global

Disputes; and regulatory matters involving the UK, US and other authorities. Additional specialist areas

include Business Restructuring; Competition/Antitrust; Corporate Tax Planning; Employment and

Pensions; Energy; Intellectual Property; and Projects and Infrastructure. The firm looks to recruit people

who want to work on global deals, be challenged on an international level, and can become partners of

the future.


These include:






http://www.jonesdaycareers.com/offices/office_detail.aspx?office=4&subsection=11


70 places available on placement schemes in total.

The firm expects to recruit all trainees from placement candidates.

An application for a placement scheme during 2015/2016 also constitutes an application for

a Training Contract commencing September 2018 (training contract interviews are conducted

towards the end of each scheme).

Successful candidates have strong intellectual ability, good communication skills and

demonstrate resourcefulness, drive and dedication. Try and highlight these in your application. When making an application, think about how the firm’s training will appeal to you.

http://www.jonesday.com/http://www.jonesday.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.jonesdaycareers.com/offices/office_detail.aspx?office=4&subsection=11http://www.jonesdaycareers.com/offices/office_detail.aspx?office=4&subsection=11http://www.jonesdaycareers.com/offices/office_detail.aspx?office=4&subsection=11mailto:[email protected]://www.jonesday.com/


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Learn about ‘The Jones Day Way’:

o One Firm Worldwide

o One Managing Partner

o No Branch Offices

o Compensation and Confidentiality

o A Culture of Respect

o

Time to Explore Applications should be easy to read and to understand – keep your answers concise and to the

point.

Candidates should only apply if they are truly interested in Jones Day. Candidates should be

committed to attending a scheme, if offered a place and have accepted.

The firm operates a unique, non-rotational system of training (whereby trainees receive work

simultaneously from all departments) to provide flexibility, responsibility, faster development

of potential and the opportunity to compare and contrast different disciplines alongside one

another.

Work will vary from small cases which trainees may handle alone (under the supervision of a

senior lawyer) to larger matters where they will assist a partner or an associate solicitor.

The firm runs a structured seminar programme to support the practical teaching trainees

receive from associates and partners they work with.

40% of London partners were trained at the firm.

100% of 2015 trainee qualifiers were retained.


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K&L Gates

One New Change

London

EC4M 9AF

www.klgates.com

[email protected]

Offices include: Austin, Beijing, Berlin, Boston, Brisbane, Brussels, Chicago, Dallas, Doha, Dubai,

Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Miami, Milan, Moscow, New York,

Palo Alto, Paris, Perth, Pittsburgh, San Diego, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Seattle, Seoul, Shanghai,

Singapore, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo, Warsaw, and Washington.

Clients include: FUJIFILM America, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Microsoft

Corporation, Starbucks Corporation, Puma, WWE, and the London Underground.

K&L Gates comprises more than 2,000 lawyers who practise in 48 offices located on five continents. The

firm represents leading global corporations, growth and middle-market companies, capital markets

participants and entrepreneurs in every major industry group as well as public sector entities,

educational institutions, philanthropic organisations and individuals. The firm’s practice is a robust full

market practice – cutting edge, complex and dynamic, at once regional, national and international in

scope. Over each of the last 5 years revenues exceeded $1 billion and, in the July 2010 issue of Legal

Business, the firm ‘further cemented its position as the Global 100’s fastest growing firm.’ K&L Gates is

active in the areas of Corporate/M&A, Capital Markets, Private Equity, Restructuring and Insolvency,

Finance, Derivatives, Funds, Antitrust, Competition and Trade Regulation, Real Estate, Planning and

Environment, Intellectual Property, Media and Sport, Construction, Insurance Coverage, Regulatory,

Tax, Employment, Pensions and Incentives, Litigation, International Arbitration, White Collar Crime and

other forms of Dispute Resolution. The London office in 2014 it posted a 23% increase in revenue,

pushing its figures up to £40.5m. Principal practice areas include Corporate, Real Estate, Finance,

Construction, IP and Dispute Resolution.


These include:

2016 Summer Legal Work Placement



http://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-

9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyers


K&L Gates look for candidates to be highly motivated, intellectually curious, with an interest

in commercial law and be looking for comprehensive training. The firm also look for candidates

who have a fairly entrepreneurial view of things, and also like and enjoy new challenges. Try

and highlight this in your application.

Several candidates are recruited from the Legal Work Placement.

http://www.klgates.com/http://www.klgates.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyershttp://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyershttp://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyershttp://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyershttp://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyershttp://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyershttp://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc-7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f1-9acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyersmailto:[email protected]://www.klgates.com/


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Trainees spend six month seats in four areas.

Trainees at K&L Gates do not choose their first seat – instead they are assigned by HR.

Each trainee sits with a supervisor and is allocated an individual mentor to ensure all round

supervision and training.

High importance is placed on the acquisition of business and professional skills, with

considerable emphasis on client contact and early responsibility.

The training programme consists of weekly legal education seminars, workshops and a full

programme of skills electives.

Pro bono and corporate social responsibility activities are also encouraged.


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Kirkland & Ellis

30 St Mary Axe

London

EC3A 8AF

www.kirkland.com

ukgraduate.kirkland.com

Offices include: Beijing, Chicago, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Munich, New York, PaloAlto, San Francisco, Shanghai, and Washington DC.

Clients include: Bain Capital, KKR, Heinz, Samsung, Morgan Stanley, General Motors, Shamrock Capital

Advisers, ExxonMobil, Boeing, Chicago Cubs, Facebook and UBS.

Kirkland & Ellis is a 1,600-attorney U.S headquartered law firm representing global clients in offices

around the world. The firm’s London office has been the hub of European operations since 1994.

Approximately 140 lawyers offer detailed expertise to a wide range of UK and international clients, with

the office mainly focussing on serving private equity houses. The firm handles complex Corporate, Debt

Finance, Restructuring, Funds, Capital Markets, Tax, Intellectual Property, Regulatory, Antitrust and

Competition, Litigation and Counselling matters. The firm is known for its expertise in InternationalArbitration, Restructuring/Insolvency, Intellectual Property and Private Equity. It's Banking group

competes alongside Magic Circle and top US firms for sponsor work. This means it advises sponsors on

issues such as leveraged finance, distressed investments and acquisition funding. The firm’s London

intake is usually under ten trainees a year, so you will be given earlier responsibility and get to know

your colleagues quickly.


These include:

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme 2018 Training Contract


http://ukgraduate.kirkland.com/application-process


The online application form includes a covering letter – this is your chance to express your legal

motivations and reasons for wanting to work for Kirkland & Ellis. Make sure you have a clear

structure, show and understanding of the firm, and try and limit your letter to a page or page

and a half maximum.

In 2014 the firm hired all its trainees from its vacation scheme.

As such, we would strongly encourage those interested in the firm to apply early for a vacation

scheme before applying for a training contract.

The Training Contract rotates between four six-month placements. The principal focus of the

training is on Corporate Law with a specialist focus on Private Equity.

In addition to a compulsory Corporate Law seat, you will undertake three further seats,

choosing from: Litigation/Arbitration, Restructuring, Debt Finance, Funds, Intellectual

Property, Antitrust and Competition, Tax and Regulatory.

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Linklaters

One Silk Street

London

EC2Y 8HQ

www.linklaters.com

www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk

[email protected]

Offices include: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Antwerp, Bangkok, Beijing, Berlin, Brussels, Dubai, Düsseldorf,

Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Lisbon, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Munich, New York, Paris,

Rome, São Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Stockholm, Tokyo, Warsaw and Washington.

Clients include: Dixons Retail, Novartis, BP, Siemens, PwC, HSBC, The Polish Government, Direct Line,

Battersea Power Station, Air France, Royal Mail, Avis, Centrica, AstraZeneca and RBS.

Home to 2,600 lawyers across 20 countries, Linklaters is one of the largest and most successful firms in

the world. Corporate, Banking and Capital Markets are the Magic Circle firm’s strongest areas and rank

amongst the City’s best. However, Linklaters is renowned for the all-round quality of work, and the firm

regularly picks up awards for innovative practices and outstanding legal advice. The firm is one of the100 British companies that generate 11% of the nation's GDP, and it handles deals that frequently make

front page news. Joining the firm means that you will be working on complex deals that have tangible

effects on the largest economies and markets – globally it is the top ranked UK firm by size. It has advised

on many of the most noteworthy cases and deals – including the ongoing administration of Lehman

Brothers, the News of the World phone hacking, the Royal Mail IPO, the merger of Glencore and Xstrata

(the biggest mining takeover ever). Working at Linklaters will mean working on the most important,

challenging assignments, gaining exposure on a global scale and having access to world-class learning

and development opportunities.


These include:


2016 Pathfinder



2018 China – London Training Contract


http://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/apply-now


The firm receives thousands of applications across its programmes, so ensure you are going the

extra mile by researching Linklaters thoroughly to make your application stand out.

Following the online application form, you will be asked to complete an online critical thinking

test – ensure you practise before taking it.

Pathfinder is a two-day insight programme for first-year undergraduates designed to give thechance to experience working at Linklaters.

http://www.linklaters.com/http://www.linklaters.com/http://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/http://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/apply-nowhttp://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/apply-nowhttp://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/apply-nowmailto:[email protected]://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/http://www.linklaters.com/


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The programme is composed of workshops, networking, work shadowing and a ‘personal

impact’ master-class.

The vacation schemes combine real-life experience in practice areas with workshops and

seminars dedicated to professional development.

You will work alongside experienced lawyers, doing the same kinds of activities as Linklaters’

trainees.

In each department you experience, you will have a trainee ‘buddy’, who is on hand to integrate

you into the team and discuss any questions you might have, as well as an associate ‘principal.’

Around 70% of Linklaters' vacation schemers generally go on to train with the firm.

The training contract comprises four seats of six-months each.

Over two-thirds of trainees spend a seat on an international secondment, plus a further one-

third undertake a client secondment, so you can expect a truly international and multi-

dimensional experience.

Each practice group also has a Group Trainee Solicitor Partner who is responsible for supporting

you as you develop and discussing your options for career development.

The China – London Training Contract provides a unique opportunity for native Mandarin

speaking undergraduates to be trained as England and Wales qualified lawyers before being

based permanently in China.

Designed for undergraduates or postgraduates in the UK who can speak, read and write

Mandarin as a native speaker and are keen to work in China upon completion of a training

contract.

Upon qualification you will have the opportunity to commence your career as an Associate in

Beijing, Hong Kong or Shanghai.


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Mayer Brown

201 Bishopsgate

London

EC2M 3AF

www.mayerbrown.com/london

www.mayerbrowngraduates.com

[email protected]

Offices include: Bangkok, Beijing, Brussels, Charlotte, Chicago, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hanoi, Ho Chi

Minh, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Mexico City, New York, Palo Alto, Rio de Janeiro, Sao

Paulo, Singapore, Shanghai, Paris, and Washington DC.

Clients include: UBS, Unilever, HSBC, Barclays, JP Morgan, Citigroup, Capital Records, Google, United

States Golf Association, United States Track and Field and Nike.

Mayer Brown was one of the first law firms to develop a global platform in recognition of the fact that

many of its clients increasingly needed an integrated, cross border legal advice. The firm is now one of

the world’s leading global law firms with offices in key business centres across Asia, Europe and the

Americas. Through the association, the extensive international expertise of its lawyers and its presencein the leading financial centres around the world, Mayer Brown provides high quality legal advice and

client-focussed solutions to support many of the world’s leading businesses, governments and

individuals. This includes a significant proportion of the Fortune 100, FTSE 100 and DAX and Hang Seng

Index and organisations in the banking, insurance, communications, industrials, energy, construction,

professional services, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and mining sectors. Mayer Brown lawyers work across

Corporate, Finance, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Real Estate, Insurance and Reinsurance, Pensions

and Employment, Competition and Trade, Tax, Intellectual Property and Information Technology. Mayer

Brown looks for candidates who have a wide range of interests and achievements outside their academic

career.


These include:

2016 Open Days





https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/process/https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/key-dates/


Mayer Brown asks for a covering letter. The cover letter must be clearly tailored to Mayer

Brown. Keep them concise, to the point and check and proofread them.

Mayer Brown stress the fact that candidates need to demonstrate their genuine interest in

working at the firm in their application.

Mayer Brown likes to see innovative candidates who can demonstrate a drive for results, good

verbal and written communication skills and an ability to analyse, with good judgement andexcellent interpersonal skills.

http://www.mayerbrown.com/londonhttp://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/http://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/process/https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/key-dates/https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/key-dates/https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/key-dates/https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/process/mailto:[email protected]://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/http://www.mayerbrown.com/london


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There are three schemes across spring and summer, with 15 places available on each.

Vacation schemers split their time between two departments, and the firm tries to

accommodate preferences.

The firm runs a 4 seat rotation system and trainees will be supervised by either a senior

associate or partner.

A secondment is mandatory, either at an international office like Hong Kong or New York, or

at one of Mayer Brown’s many clients.


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Norton Rose Fulbright

3 More London Riverside

London

SE1 2AQ

www.nortonrosefulbright.com

www.nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com/en/united-kingdom

[email protected]

Offices include: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Athens, Bahrain, Bangkok, Beijing, Bogotá, Brisbane, Brussels,

Calgary, Canberra, Cape Town, Caracas, Casablanca, Dallas, Dar es Salaam, Dubai, Durban, Frankfurt,

Hamburg, Hong Kong, Houston,, Johannesburg, London, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Milan, Montréal,

Moscow, Munich, New York, Paris, Perth, Québec, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, San Antonio, Shanghai,

Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto, Warsaw and Washington DC.

Clients include: Deutsche Bank, EasyJet, British Airways, Barclays, Citibank, BP, Société Générale, PwC,

Asda, Delta Airlines, Japan Airlines, Royal Bank of Canada, Government of South Africa and Lonsdale

Sports.

Norton Rose Fulbright looks for intelligent, ambitious, internationally focused and commercially-mindedindividuals to drive the business. The firm expects candidates to think creatively and find new ways to

solve problems. The firm has more than 3,800 lawyers based in over 50 cities across Europe, the United

States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. Norton Rose

Fulbright operates in accordance with its global business principles of quality, unity and integrity. It aims

to provide the highest possible standard of legal service in each office and to maintain that level of

quality at every point of contact.


These include:


2015 December Open Day

2016 April Open Day

2016 First Step Scheme




http://www.nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com/en/united-kingdom/application-process/application-

deadline-calendar


Norton Rose Fulbright’s application deadlines are shorter and all candidates are encouraged

to apply as early as possible as the firm will allocate interview slots on a rolling basis.

In 2014 the firm hired 55% of all its trainees from its vacation scheme.

During the vacation scheme, you will share offices with associates and partners whilst sitting

in two different departments, to give you the chance to learn as much as possible about the

firm.

The Training Contract rotates between four six-month placements.

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The principal focus of training is on Banking, with compulsory seats in the firm’s Banking group,

Corporate department and Disputes group.

The remaining seat can be spent in one of the niche practices, going on a client secondment

(mostly banking-based) or on an overseas seat.


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Reed Smith

Broadgate Tower

London

EC2A 2RS

www.reedsmith.com

www.reedsmith.com/united_kingdom/graduates

[email protected]

Offices include: Abu Dhabi, Athens, Beijing, Century City, Chicago, Dubai, Frankfurt, Hong Kong,

Houston, Kazakhstan, London, Los Angeles, Munich, New York, Paris, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Princeton,

San Francisco, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, Singapore and Washington, D.C.

Clients include: Eagle Bulk Shipping, BBC Worldwide, Channel 4, McDonald's, Microsoft, HMV, Samsung,

Barclays and Santander.

Reed Smith is an Anglo-American firm spanning three continents and 25 cities. Reed Smith now has a

1,800 practitioners on board, 350 of whom are based in London. Reed Smith is a truly global firm, rather

than an American firm, and London is the largest office. Work is divided into four main industry groups:

Energy & Natural Resources, Entertainment & Media, Financial Institutions and Life Sciences & Health.The firm is particularly well known for its work advising leading companies in the areas of financial

services, life sciences, shipping, energy and natural resources, advertising, technology and media. It

provides a wide range of commercial legal services for all these clients, including a full spectrum of

Corporate, Commercial and Financial Services, Dispute Resolution, Real Estate and Employment advice.

Much of the work is multi – jurisdictional. The firm is looking for individuals with the drive and potential

to become world-class business lawyers. It wants ‘players’ rather than ‘onlookers’ with strong intellect,

initiative, the ability to thrive in a challenging profession and the personal qualities to build strong

relationships with colleagues and clients.


These include:




Vacation Scheme:

http://www.reedsmith.com/united_kingdom/graduates/summer_vacation_scheme/

Training Contract: http://www.reedsmith.com/united_kingdom/graduates/training_contracts/

Helpful Information

Following completion of the online application form, you will be asked to complete a Situation

Strengths Test (SST).

This is an online test in which you will be given scenarios you might encounter in your role as a

trainee and then asked to prioritise your responses to them.

There are two schemes, with 12 spaces available each year.

The firm runs a 4 seat training contract rotation system and trainees will be supervised by either

a senior associate or partner.

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Trainees have the opportunity to spend six months on secondment, either abroad or with a

client.

The firm has developed a new version of the Legal Practice Course (LPC) that fully integrates

legal and business learning and leads to a unique Master’s qualification, the MA (LPC with

Business).


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Shearman & Sterling

Broadgate West

London

EC2A 2AP

www.shearman.com

ukgraduates.shearman.com

[email protected]

Offices include: Abu Dhabi, Beijing, Brussels, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, London, Milan, New York, Palo Alto,

Paris, Rome, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo, Toronto and Washington DC.

Clients include: Abu Dhabi Global Market, Cadbury, Manchester City Football Club, The Dow Chemical

Company, Ford Motor Company, Jaguar Land Rover, Liverpool Football Club, Mercedes Grand Prix and

Nokia.

Shearman & Sterling is one of the world’s leading premier global law firms and was established over a

century ago. The London office opened over 40 years ago and quickly became one of the leading

practices, covering all aspects of English, European and US corporate and finance law. Globally there areover 900 lawyers, including around 200 partners. The firm’s main areas of work include: M&A (including

Private Equity, Equity Capital Markets and US Capital Markets), Project Development and Finance,

(including Capital Markets, Structured, Acquisition and Leveraged Finance), International Arbitration,

Litigation, Antitrust, Tax, Financial Institutions Advisory, Asset Management, Real Estate and Executive

Compensation and Employee Benefits. Shearman & Sterling looks for trainees from a broad range of

backgrounds who can bring their unique experiences to the firm. Working closely with partners and

associates, trainees have the opportunity to become an integral team member, taking on real

responsibility from day one.


These include:

2015 November Women in Law Conference


2016 January Open Day

2016 Head Start



2016 June Open Day



http://ukgraduates.shearman.com/opportunities/


Shearman & Sterling look for candidates who are enthusiastic and ambitious, and show a real

willingness to learn and develop their skills across both technical and soft skill areas

Ensure you are consistent in spelling ‘Shearman & Sterling’ – avoid using ‘S&S/Shearman’

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Do not simply refer to Shearman & Sterling as an ‘American firm’ – they are a global firm and

have been established in the UK for a long time.

The firm always recommends people apply for vac schemes first.

Successful Winter, Spring and Summer Vacation Scheme applicants will have the chance to get

to grips with the work a trainee may be exposed to, as well as seeing the social side of life with

Shearman & Sterling.

The two year training contract consists of four seats, each lasting six months.

Two of these seats will be in Shearman & Sterling’s core practice areas: M&A, Finance or

Project Development and Finance, while the remaining two are selected from the other

practice areas.

Trainees typically share an office with a partner or senior lawyer allowing informal learning on

the job, while the structured training programme at the firm ensures trainees get exposure to

all the information they need to be a success now and in the future.

Trainees are also encouraged to spend a seat in one of the firm’s overseas offices, allowing

them to further build their global networks.


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Simmons & Simmons

CityPoint

London

EC2Y 9SS

www.simmons-simmons.com

www.simmons-simmons.com/graduates

[email protected]

Overseas Offices: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Beijing, Bristol, Brussels, Doha, Dubai, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt,

Funchal, Hong Kong, Jeddah, Lisbon, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Munich, Paris, Riyadh, Rome,

Shanghai, Singapore and Tokyo.

Clients include: Barclays, HSBC, Samsung, GlaxoSmithKline, Morgan Stanley, Abercrombie & Fitch,

Aspinal of London, English National Ballet, Harley Davidson, Hugo Boss, MTV Networks, Coca-Cola, Virgin

Media, UK Ministry of Defence, Cathay Pacific and Deutsche Bank.

Simmons & Simmons is a leading international law firm with fully integrated teams working throughout

offices in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The firm’s strategy is designed to ensure it provides its clientswith high quality advice and to deliver value through new ways of working. From Simmons & Simmons’

offices in major business and financial centres throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia, they view

the world through the lens of their key sectors: asset management & investment funds, energy &

infrastructure, financial institutions, life sciences, and technology, media & telecommunications. These

five sector teams are drawn from the core practice areas of: Corporate, Dispute Resolution, Competition

& Regulatory, Employment, Pensions & Employee Benefits, Financial Markets, Intellectual Property,

Projects, Real Estate, Information, Communications & Technology and Tax.


These include:

Bristol and London Open Days


2016 Spring Insight Scheme


2018 Training Contract – Bristol and London


Scheme Dates & Deadlines: http://graduates.simmons-simmons.com/en/English-Graduate/Key-

Events/Scheme-dates-and-deadlines

Vacation Schemes: http://graduates.simmons-simmons.com/en/English-Graduate/Vacation-Schemes

Training Contract: http://graduates.simmons-simmons.com/en/English-Graduate/Training-

Contracts/Assessment-Process


Simmons & Simmons is looking to discover your ability to form excellent interpersonal

relations and work within a team environment, as well as your levels of motivation, drive and

ambition. The key qualities Simmons & Simmons look for in candidates are: ambition,

commitment, innovation, responsibility and collegiality. Simmons & Simmons put collaborative

relationships and innovation at the heart of the way it works.

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Once you have submitted your application, you will be asked to complete an online judgement

test. The judgement test will give you a series of real life scenarios with a number of different

options to choose from. If you are successful following the situational judgement test, you will

be sent online logical and verbal ability tests. After you have finished your online ability tests,

you will complete a short video interview.

Simmons & Simmons opened their second UK office in Bristol in 2012 to allow them to improveefficiencies, while continuing to undertake complex, high value work for clients.

Lawyers based in Bristol are fully integrated with the London practices and undertake work in

areas such as Banking, Corporate, Financial Services (funds) ICT, Litigation, Projects and Real

Estate.

A vacation placement will enable you to gain first-hand experience of a busy and dynamic

international law firm, with exposure to the deals and transactions the firm works on.

The one week Winter Vacation Scheme is designed to give you a valuable insight into Simmons

& Simmons and the commercial environment in which they operate.

They recruit on a rolling basis, so if you’re interested, make sure you apply as soon as possible.

Simmons & Simmons’ MBA programme is designed to provide trainees and junior lawyers with

a unique opportunity to gain valuable business and commercial skills early in their career.

Whether you complete your training contract in London or Bristol, during your two years, you

will do four six-month seats in different practice areas, to familiarise you with the teams, the

clients and type of work.

o One contentious seat in either Litigation, Employment or Intellectual Property

o One corporate and commercial seat in either Corporate, ICT or Projects

o

One financial markets seat in either Asset Finance, Banking, Capital Markets or FinancialServices

o There are further optional seats in Competition and Regulatory, Real Estate and Tax

Around 80% of trainees undertake either a secondment with a client, or in one of the firm’s

international offices during their training contract – destinations include Abu Dhabi, Dubai,

Hong Kong, Paris, Singapore and Tokyo.


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Travers Smith

10 Snow Hill

London

EC1A 2AL

www.traverssmith.com

www.traverssmith.com/careers/graduate-recruitment

[email protected]

Offices include: London, Paris (representative office)

Clients include: Pets at Home, Byron Hamburgers, Merlin Entertainments, Ambassador Theatres,

Trainline, Bridgepoint, Cath Kidston, Spire Healthcare Groups, Metro Bank, Blacks Leisure, Pinewood

Studios, Virgin Media Television, Zoopla and Bicester Village Shopping Centre.

Travers Smith is an award-winning independent law firm with a reputation for excellence in all of its

chosen fields. Less than a quarter of the size of the largest firms, Travers Smith handles high profile and

top quality work, much of which has an international dimension, despite the firm not having a network

of overseas offices. The firm’s areas of work are Corporate law (including Takeovers and Mergers, Private

Equity, IPOs, Equity Capital Markets and Funds), Environment and Operational Regulatory, Commercial,Intellectual Property and Technology Law, Dispute Resolution, Banking, Restructuring, Financial Services

and Markets, Competition, Tax, Employment, Pensions and Real Estate. Travers Smith prides their

partner-led service, quality of associates, consistent teams and commercial advice.


These include:





Vacation Scheme: http://www.traverssmith.com/careers/graduate-recruitment/our-vacation-

schemes/

Training Contract: http://www.traverssmith.com/careers/graduate-recruitment/how-to-apply/


The firm looks for people who combine academic excellence with common sense; who are

determined and articulate, who can think on their feet, and who take their work but notthemselves seriously.

Travers Smith’s vacation scheme application form includes a covering letter along with a few

questions to determine your extra-curricular activities.

This means that it’s up to you to pick out the most relevant aspects of your skills and experience

and to produce a compelling argument for why you would make a good trainee solicitor.

When writing your covering letter remember that it must be clearly tailored.

Travers Smith has 25 training contracts on offer and typically recruits around 40% of its trainees

through the vacation scheme.

Vacation scheme students have the chance to shadow trainees, attend workshops on skills like

negotiations and drafting, and also get to socialise with lawyers at various drinks events.

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Those who want to pursue a training contract after their scheme can resubmit their application

for consideration. Students are evaluated on their performance during their placement rather

than through any further interviews.

The two year training contract consists of four seats, each lasting six months.

During the two year training contract, trainees spend six months in the Corporate department

and one of either the Dispute Resolution or the Employment departments. The other two six-month seats are spent in two of the other specialist departments.

All trainee solicitors sit in rooms with partners and associates, which leads to a lack of hierarchy.

Trainees receive an individual and extensive training from experienced lawyers, enjoying client

contact, and the responsibility that goes with it, from day one.


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Weil, Gotshal & Manges

110 Fetter Lane

London

EC4A 1AY

www.weil.com

ukrecruiting.weil.com

[email protected]

Offices include: Beijing, Boston, Budapest, Dallas, Dubai, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Houston, London,

Miami, Munich, New York, Paris, Prague, Princeton, Providence, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, Warsaw and

Washington DC.

Clients include: Charterhouse, Providence Equity, Goldman Sachs, Lion Capital, Johnson & Johnson, Bain

Capital, Deutsche Bank, Citibank, NBC, KPMG, Barclays, eBay, Yahoo!, Verizon, ESPN, Walt Disney

Corporation and Marvel Entertainment.

Weil is one of the world’s truly elite international firms with 1,200 lawyers in 20 cities throughout the

US, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Weil is one of a small handful of firms that has a balance of market-

leading restructuring and private equity capabilities with an international framework of consistently

high-quality offices. The London office was established in 1996 and has grown to become the second

largest of the firm’s worldwide offices. The office is very focussed on transactions, in particular in private

equity, restructuring and finance. Even traditional advisory seats like real estate, pensions, employment

and IP tend to be delivered in a transactional or litigation context. The firm has been consistently top-

ranked by the most authoritative legal and financial industry directories, including those published by

Chambers & Partners and The Lawyer Group. Recently the firm was named among the "Sweet Sixteen"

of elite international law firms for the second consecutive year by The Lawyer magazine. Weil was at the

forefront of restructuring work after the credit crisis, providing corporate and private equity clients with

cutting-edge advice on markets, how best to weather the current storms and prepare for opportunities

in the distressed M&A market. The firm advise on all aspects of domestic and cross-border transactional

and general corporate issues, including acquisitions and disposals, corporate governance, demergersand re-organisations, equity capital markets, joint ventures, public and private mergers and strategic

alliances.


These include:

Open Days

2016 April First Year Fast Track Scheme




First Year Fast Track Scheme: http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/first-year-fast-track-scheme/

Vacation Scheme: http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/vacation-schemes/

Training Contract: http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/training-contracts/

http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/application-process/

http://www.weil.com/http://www.weil.com/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/first-year-fast-track-scheme/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/first-year-fast-track-scheme/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/first-year-fast-track-scheme/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/vacation-schemes/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/vacation-schemes/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/vacation-schemes/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/training-contracts/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/training-contracts/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/training-contracts/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/application-process/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/application-process/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/application-process/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/training-contracts/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/vacation-schemes/http://ukrecruiting.weil.com/opportunities/first-year-fast-track-scheme/mailto:[email protected]://ukrecruiting.weil.com/http://www.weil.com/


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The application form is your first opportunity to stand out, to demonstrate your passion for

commercial law and to explain why Weil is the right firm for you. You should make the most of

your experiences, highlighting what you have gained from them and how this might apply to the

skills required for a career at Weil. You should be a commercial thinker, not only showing an

interest in the legal industry, but also evidencing a sound knowledge of current affairs moregenerally and the impact those events might have for the firm and our clients. Above all, you

should be specific in your application and tailor your submission to Weil and why you are

committed to joining the firm.

The online application form will question your commitment and motivation for a career in law,

ask you about your achievements and skills, and ask you to summarise the academic and extra-

curricular experiences you have.

In 2014 the firm hired 60% of all its trainees from its vacation scheme.

During the vacation scheme, you will share offices with associates and partners whilst sitting in

two different departments, to give you the chance to learn as much as possible about the firm.

All trainees are required to complete one seat in t Corporate and another in either Banking &

Finance or Structured Finance.

Upon joining the firm you will be allocated a ‘Responsible Partner’ who will work with you to

give an objective view of your work and to help you raise your profile with other partners.


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Withers Worldwide

16 Old Bailey

London

EC4M 7EG

www.withersworldwide.com

graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/

Offices include: BVI, Geneva, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New York, Singapore, San Diego,

San Francisco and Zurich.

Clients include: Some of the wealthiest global citizens. Withers acts for around a quarter of the UK

Sunday Times ‘Rich List’ and a significant number from the US ‘Forbes’ and Asian ‘Huran’ rich lists.

Withers is a leading international law firm dedicated to the business, personal and philanthropic

interests of successful people, their families, their businesses and their advisers. Withers’ reputation in

commercial law along with its status as the largest Private Client Team in Europe and leading Family

Team sets it apart from other City firms. The firm has been recognised for its great working environment

having been listed in both The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to work for and in receiving LegalWeek’s Best Legal Employer Award for the past two years.


These include:

2016 Easter Vacation Scheme




Vacation Schemes: http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/work-experience

Training Contract: http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/training-in-london


On its application form, Withers asks which character from literature you would be and why.

The firm’s partners are well read and will likely challenge you on our selection if you are invited

to interview, so try and avoid clichés, or characters you do not completely understand The form is includes up to five competency based questions, so be specific, thorough and aim

to highlight skills like communication, leadership, teamwork and commercial awareness

The Training Contract rotates between four six-month placements. Private Client is the most

popular seat, but there are options in Corporate/Commercial, Litigation and Employment.

Working in a team with a partner and an assistant solicitor provides autonomy, responsibility

and fast development.

http://www.withersworldwide.com/http://www.withersworldwide.com/http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/work-experiencehttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/work-experiencehttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/work-experiencehttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/training-in-londonhttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/training-in-londonhttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/training-in-londonhttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/training-in-londonhttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/work-experiencehttp://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/http://www.withersworldwide.com/


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Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co

4 More London

Riverside

London

SE1 2AU

www.wragge-law.com

graduate.wragge-law.com

Offices include: Birmingham, Brussels, Dubai, Guangzhou, London, Monaco, Moscow, Munich, Paris and

Singapore.

Clients include: UTC Aerospace Systems, British Airways, Norwegian Air, Virgin Atlantic, Coca-Cola,

Premier Foods, Arcadia (Topshop, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins and Wallis), ASOS, Sainsbury’s, B&Q,

Specsavers, Fitness First, Williams F1 and Cove Energy.

Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co is a UK-headquartered international law firm providing a full service to

clients worldwide. The firm was created in May 2014 when London's Lawrence Graham and

Birmingham's Wragge & Co merged. In July this year Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co announced a

merger with Canadian law firm Gowlings. The new firm will be known as Gowling WLG and will launchin January 2016, having 18 international offices. The firm’s key practice areas are: commercial and

projects; corporate, finance and private capital; dispute resolution; human resources; and real estate.

Wragge are sector-focused, and work in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, technology,

energy, food and drink, healthcare and life sciences, public sector and retail, commercial, energy and

natural resources, intellectual property, IT, outsourcing, PFI, projects and regulatory issues. In 2014-

2015 real estate was the largest practice group, complemented by significant corporate and litigation

departments.


These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme – Birmingham

2016 March First Year Open Day – Birmingham and London

2016 Spring Vacation Scheme – Birmingham and London

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme – Birmingham and London

2018 Training Contract – Birmingham and London


Vacation Schemes: http://graduate.wragge-law.com/vacation-schemes/ Training Contract: http://graduate.wragge-law.com/training-contracts/


Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co look for candidates who have a strong work ethic, a passion for

teamwork, a dedication to delivering brilliant legal services as well as pragmatism and innovation.

The firm also looks for genuine business interest and an understanding of what a career in law

involves.

The application form contains questions on why you want to be a commercial lawyer, why you

applied and what transferable skills you can offer. There is also a commercial question about the

firm's place in the business world.

http://www.wragge-law.com/http://www.wragge-law.com/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/vacation-schemes/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/vacation-schemes/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/vacation-schemes/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/training-contracts/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/training-contracts/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/training-contracts/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/training-contracts/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/vacation-schemes/http://graduate.wragge-law.com/http://www.wragge-law.com/


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Initial applicants also face two online tests: a verbal reasoning test and a situational judgement

test. Following these assessments, candidates face a telephone interview and an assessment day.

Understand why Wragge & Co and Lawrence Graham merged last year, how their approaches

have changed and what the impact of the merger with Gowlings will be.

For 2018 London-based training contracts, the firm will be recruiting trainees exclusively from

the Spring & Summer London vacation schemes.

If you would like to be considered for a London-based training contract, you will need to apply

for a 2016 vacation scheme.

There are normally ten places available on each scheme.

In 2014-2015 Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co recruited 15 trainees in London and 15 in

Birmingham. Candidates apply to work in a specific office, and complete their training in a single

location.

Trainees are challenged with early responsibility and exposure to the firm’s top clients.

Trainees must do one real estate, one transactional and one contentious seat.

Currently there are two overseas options: Dubai and Guangzhou. The Dubai seat focuses on

construction disputes and corporate. Guangzhou is largely an IP office which also does some

commercial and finance work.

2015 - 2016 seo application guide

Documents