2015 2016

Application Guide
General Tips &
Firm Information

Contents

Application Tips

Addleshaw Goddard

CMS Cameron McKenna

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

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 no
substitute 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.

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 firms 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 firms 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 firms 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.
4

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, extracurricular, 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 as
arrogant.
5

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

Write the firms 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 are
looking 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.
6

Speak clearly, calmly and confidently using a professional tone.

Structure your answers.
Ensure that you keep to time during the interview.

Addleshaw Goddard
Milton Gate
60 Chiswell Street
London
EC1Y 4AG
www.addleshawgoddard.com
www.addleshawgoddard.com/graduates
grad@addleshawgoddard.com
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 nationally
and internationally. The firms 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 firms 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 firms 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.

CMS Cameron McKenna

Cannon Place
78 Cannon Street
London
EC4N 6AF
www.cms-cmck.com
www.graduates.cms-cmck.com
info@cms-cmck.com
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 Sainsburys.
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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2016 Easter Vacation Scheme London

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme London, Bristol and Scotland
2018 Training Contract London, Bristol and Scotland

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

Vacations Schemes: http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/vacation-schemes/
Training Contract: http://graduates.cms-cmck.com/work-for-us/training-contracts/
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

Recruiters look for leadership, interpersonal skills, teamwork, problem solving, commitment
and motivation.
Make sure you understand the firms 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 firms regional or
international offices. Options include clients like Amazon or IBM, or international offices such
as Rio de Janeiro, Moscow or Prague.

Herbert Smith Freehills

Exchange House
London
EC2A 2EG3
www.herbertsmithfreehills.com
careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads
graduatesuk@hsf.com
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 Disputes
practice is acknowledged as the number one in the UK and Asia and includes the firms 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme

2016 First Year Workshop
2016 Spring Vacation Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

https://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/uk/grads/join-us
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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.

10

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 firms clients.

11

Jones Day
21 Tudor Street
London
EC4Y 0DJ
www.jonesday.com
recruit.london@jonesday.com
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 firms
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 Londons critical financial centre, Jones Day lawyers are perfectly placed to address the most
demanding 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme

2016 Spring Vacation Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

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

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 firms training will appeal to you.

12

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.

13

K&L Gates
One New Change
London
EC4M 9AF
www.klgates.com
traineerecruitment@klgates.com
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 firms 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 100s 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2016 Summer Legal Work Placement

2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

http://www.klgates.com/careers/xpqGC.aspx?xpST=CareersGeneral&key=4b1759cd-3bb6-4076-abfc7db096fb9a5c&activeEntry=0bbb7dcf-38ee-4818-9b8c-c23a2896c366&cRegion=769a97c1-eff8-49f19acf-9990c71df6d2&cPosition=28af6359-3297-45f5-b10e-a4dd28997b3b&cType=lawyers
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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.

14

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.

15

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, Palo
Alto, 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 firms 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 International
Arbitration, 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 firms London
intake is usually under ten trainees a year, so you will be given earlier responsibility and get to know
your colleagues quickly.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme

2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

http://ukgraduate.kirkland.com/application-process
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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.

16

Linklaters
One Silk Street
London
EC2Y 8HQ
www.linklaters.com
www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk
graduate.recruitment@linklaters.com
Offices include: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Antwerp, Bangkok, Beijing, Berlin, Brussels, Dubai, Dsseldorf,
Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Lisbon, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Munich, New York, Paris,
Rome, So 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 firms strongest areas and rank
amongst the Citys 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 the
100 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme

2016 Pathfinder
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract
2018 China London Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

http://www.linklatersgraduates.co.uk/apply-now
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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 the
chance to experience working at Linklaters.
17

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 onethird undertake a client secondment, so you can expect a truly international and multidimensional 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.

18

Mayer Brown
201 Bishopsgate
London
EC2M 3AF
www.mayerbrown.com/london
www.mayerbrowngraduates.com
graduaterecruitment@mayerbrown.com
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 worlds 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 presence
in the leading financial centres around the world, Mayer Brown provides high quality legal advice and
client-focussed solutions to support many of the worlds 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2016 Open Days

2016 Spring Vacation Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/process/
https://www.mayerbrowngraduates.com/how-do-i-apply/key-dates/
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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 and
excellent interpersonal skills.
19

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 Browns many clients.

20

Norton Rose Fulbright

3 More London Riverside
London
SE1 2AQ
www.nortonrosefulbright.com
www.nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com/en/united-kingdom
graduate.recruitment@nortonrosefulbright.com
Offices include: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Athens, Bahrain, Bangkok, Beijing, Bogot, 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, Montral,
Moscow, Munich, New York, Paris, Perth, Qubec, 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, Socit Gnrale, 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-minded
individuals 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme

2015 December Open Day
2016 April Open Day
2016 First Step Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

http://www.nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com/en/united-kingdom/application-process/applicationdeadline-calendar
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

Norton Rose Fulbrights 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.

21

The principal focus of training is on Banking, with compulsory seats in the firms 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.

22

Reed Smith
Broadgate Tower
London
EC2A 2RS
www.reedsmith.com
www.reedsmith.com/united_kingdom/graduates
graduate.recruitment@reedsmith.com
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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme

2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

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.
23

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 Masters qualification, the MA (LPC with
Business).

24

Shearman & Sterling

Broadgate West
London
EC2A 2AP
www.shearman.com
ukgraduates.shearman.com
graduates@shearman.com
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 worlds 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 are
over 900 lawyers, including around 200 partners. The firms 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2015 November Women in Law Conference

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme
2016 January Open Day
2016 Head Start
2016 Spring Vacation Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2016 June Open Day
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

http://ukgraduates.shearman.com/opportunities/
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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

25

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 & Sterlings 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 firms overseas offices, allowing
them to further build their global networks.

26

Simmons & Simmons

CityPoint
London
EC2Y 9SS
www.simmons-simmons.com
www.simmons-simmons.com/graduates
recruitment@simmons-simmons.com
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 firms strategy is designed to ensure it provides its clients
with 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

Bristol and London Open Days

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme
2016 Spring Insight Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract Bristol and London

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

Scheme Dates & Deadlines: http://graduates.simmons-simmons.com/en/English-Graduate/KeyEvents/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/TrainingContracts/Assessment-Process
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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.

27

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 improve
efficiencies, 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 youre 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 Financial
Services
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 firms
international offices during their training contract destinations include Abu Dhabi, Dubai,
Hong Kong, Paris, Singapore and Tokyo.

28

Travers Smith
10 Snow Hill
London
EC1A 2AL
www.traverssmith.com
www.traverssmith.com/careers/graduate-recruitment
graduate.recruitment@traverssmith.com
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 firms 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.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2015 Winter Vacation Scheme

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

Vacation Scheme: http://www.traverssmith.com/careers/graduate-recruitment/our-vacationschemes/
Training Contract: http://www.traverssmith.com/careers/graduate-recruitment/how-to-apply/
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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 not
themselves seriously.
Travers Smiths vacation scheme application form includes a covering letter along with a few
questions to determine your extra-curricular activities.
This means that its 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.
29

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.

30

Weil, Gotshal & Manges

110 Fetter Lane
London
EC4A 1AY
www.weil.com
ukrecruiting.weil.com
graduate.recruitment@weil.com
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 worlds 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 marketleading 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 firms 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 topranked 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, demergers
and re-organisations, equity capital markets, joint ventures, public and private mergers and strategic
alliances.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

Open Days
2016 April First Year Fast Track Scheme
2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

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/

31

Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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 more
generally 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 extracurricular 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.

32

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 Legal
Weeks Best Legal Employer Award for the past two years.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
These include:

2016 Easter Vacation Scheme

2016 Summer Vacation Scheme
2018 Training Contract

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

Vacation Schemes: http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/work-experience
Training Contract: http://graduatecareers.withersworldwide.com/eu/training-in-london
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

On its application form, Withers asks which character from literature you would be and why.
The firms partners are well read and will likely challenge you on our selection if you are invited
to interview, so try and avoid clichs, 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.

33

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, Sainsburys, 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 launch
in January 2016, having 18 international offices. The firms 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 20142015 real estate was the largest practice group, complemented by significant corporate and litigation
departments.
Graduate Recruitment Programmes
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

Please read the firms guidance and instructions on applications:

Vacation Schemes: http://graduate.wragge-law.com/vacation-schemes/
Training Contract: http://graduate.wragge-law.com/training-contracts/
Helpful Information Hints & Tips

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.

34

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 firms 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.

35