Vacation Schemes Training Contract Training Contract Journey SQE

New Threads

 STB Launch Forum list

Deferred SQE1 exams - will it impact applications?

T
Hi everyone,
I have a first class undergrad degree in biochemistry and completed the GDL with SQE1 course at BPP with a distinction. During my GDL I obtained a vacation scheme at a city law firm but unfortunate didn’t convert it into a TC offer. Thereafter my SQE1 studies were significantly disrupted due to 2 close family bereavements, caring responsibilities etc. So, a year later, I managed to complete the SQE1 prep portion of my course but haven’t done the official SQE1 exams yet. I am planning to on January.
Will this be a significant disadvantage for me as I apply for training contracts this cycle? Do I have to explain why I haven’t done my sqe1 exams yet?
I’d appreciate any advice on the best way to approach this. Thank you in advance.
Click to expand...
  • ✅
Reactions: Abbie Whitlock

Why are you attracted to the firm, how do you think it differs from its competitors?

swagata
X firm attracts me because of its distinctive sector focus, particularly within shipping, I strongly believe differentiates it from firms with established maritime practices, such as x and y.

First, while many international firms advise on cross-border matters, X international footprint reflects the geography of the industries it serves. Its network extends beyond traditional financial centres to strategically important maritime and offshore locations (e.g., Piraeus, Rio de Janeiro, the British Virgin Islands), where shipping, offshore energy, and maritime commerce are conducted, thereby demonstrating an understanding of the operational realities of the industry. Consequently, X is well-positioned to advise clients across the full lifecycle of shipping matters. Few firms combine this level of operational understanding with such a broad international shipping practice. I chose X because of the strong cross-border work and a guaranteed international secondment opportunity.


Secondly, X's specialist XYZ practice particularly stands out to me. Led by D, the multidisciplinary team brings together lawyers and master mariners to provide legal, commercial and operational advice during major maritime incidents. E.g., the team's work advising war-risk insurers following the detention of a US vessel after the invasion of Ukraine, covering insurance issues, securing the vessel's release, facilitating its sale and pursuing recovery proceedings against charterers, demonstrates how X coordinates advice across an entire crisis. In an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment, this combination of legal expertise and investigative work is both compelling and necessary. This is the kind of complex, multi-juricdictional work I want to be a part of as a trainee.

Finally, X's heritage reinforces its position within the sector. Founded in the maritime market with its 1916 base located in No.1 Lloyd’s Avenue, at the heart of London's historic shipping community, the firm has evolved alongside the shipping industry for more than 140 years. Rather than merely advising maritime businesses, X has grown with the industry itself, continually adapting its capabilities to meet changing commercial and geopolitical challenges. To me, this is what truly distinguishes X, i.e., its roots deep within the maritime ecosystem. Hence, the opportunity to learn from industry experts within the firm really excites me.

Welcome to advice, criticisms 🙏
Click to expand...

Paralegal roles - law firms to avoid lol

L
Hi Everyone.

I have some time before starting my SQE, and I have been looking at paralegal roles. A lot of my friends have been working as a paralegal for a while, so I have heard a lot of horror stories lol.

Especially with some of the smaller firms.

I don't want to encourage gossiping about law firms, but there have been times I've seen roles advertised with a firm and/or a recruiter has sent me a firm and i really want to know what the environment is like and whether anyone has had a bad experience. it does sadly seem quite common, so it would be nice for the community to support each other where we can ensure we are taking on jobs in firms that actually respect us!!!

hope we can message on here when considering a firm and others can give their experiences where relevant!
Click to expand...

Introduction

N
Hey guys, just joining TCLA now. Seem following them for quite some time and getting tips for apps and ACs!

I am from a non target university but managed to get over 5 ACs from the likes of WFW, Wedlake bell, Foot Anstey, TLT, Covington & Burling LLP

Currently working at a fintech bank, and just graduated.
Just at the last hurdle of getting that return offer!

Waiting to hear back from FA TC 2027 and got my WB final round TC interview next week.

Will keep everyone updated!
Click to expand...
  • Like
  • 🏆
  • Love
Reactions: Jaysen, haribolover, Abbie Whitlock and 1 other person

Burges Salmon AC help

J
Hi everyone! I recently received an invitation to attend an Assessment Centre at Burges Salmon, which I'm really excited about.

One of the exercises listed for the day is a simulated scenario discussion, and I was wondering if anyone who has been through the process would be willing to share any insights.

Is it typically more like an in-tray exercise, or is it closer to a situational, one-to-one interview? I'd really appreciate any advice on what to expect, how best to prepare, and any tips on what assessors are looking for or common things to avoid.

I'd also genuinely appreciate any guidance on the other parts of the assessment centre, including the group exercise, written exercise, and interview with a lawyer. Any advice on how to prepare, what to expect, or what you found particularly helpful would be hugely appreciated!
Click to expand...
Load more

Order by:

Latest posts

Deadlines

Top Members

Weekly Monthly Yearly
Posts
Show More >

Find member

Top Bottom
Back