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Late 20s career changer - finally taking the plunge and pursuing law!

P
Hi everyone!

It’s so lovely to be here and to read through everyone’s stories. I’m a career changer who is looking to (finally) stop being scared and pursue a career in commercial/corporate law. I wish I had done law much sooner as it has always been an interest of mine. My A level grades aren’t the strongest as I became a carer for my dad at the time. I attended a non-RG university and came out with a 2:1 degree. Since graduating in 2020, I have worked in various sectors such as higher education, charity, and financial services.

I currently work for one of the big banks in governance supporting company directors in a company secretary-type role, and I regularly work alongside lawyers/partners from top-tier MC/SC/US law firms. I thoroughly enjoy the legal side of my work, so law feels like a natural progression for me and a way to formalise my expertise and interests. I have 5 years (time has gone by super fast!) of professional experience, so I’m hoping I’ll be able to leverage all this experience in my applications.

Looking forward to connecting with you all on here and wishing everyone the best of luck in their applications/careers!
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Ask BCLP Anything! (2025-26)

Jaysen
Hey everyone,

We're excited to have Isabel Elsey, BCLP's Legal Recruitment Manager, live in this forum thread right now!

Izzy plays a key role in BCLP’s trainee recruitment process and will be answering your questions about the firm, applications, and what graduate recruitment looks for in future trainees.

All you need to do is hit reply and ask any questions that you have.

Best,
Jaysen


And here are the upcoming BCLP Deadlines

Vacation Schemes

London Spring Vacation Scheme 2026: Apply by 12 December 2025
London Summer Vacation Scheme 2026: Apply by 16 January 2026

Training Contract

London Training Contract 2027/28: Apply by 31 May 2026
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What's appropriate experience for direct TCs?

A
Hey everyone, I know this has been asked a couple of times on here, but not quite to my circumstances, so thought I would get your thoughts.

I am working full time as a paralegal (in an unrelated, non-commercial field) whilst studying my conversion. I have only been working in this role for 3 months, so not years of legal experience under my belt (which I have heard is who direct TCs are really for).

I also have 3 mini-pupillages - one in crime, one in public law, and one in commercial. I have no VS experience, but have been to a few open days.

Do you think it's appropriate I apply for direct TCs in my situation? I would rather this option, since I am working full time, but obviously not if I don't stand a chance. I am certainly not closed off to applying to VSs, but time is limited. What do you guys think? Cheers!
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