TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[Amma Usman]

I got pfo from all the firms in the application stage. Though I have some direct TC applications pending review, I am wondering how to improve the four applications I have left to submit (and for winter VS in the worst-case scenario).

I have written about my academic interests and work experience in litigation, investigations, and corporate crime relating to the firm's reputation in these practices and available seats. I included a few lines demonstrating my interests in regulatory compliance, investment funds, and banking and finance (I studied these topics in the modules of my LLM in Banking and Finance at RG uni and worked with regulatory compliance and banking during an internship in a regtech).

How to balance the interests in contentious in the applications?

Should I strategically focus on my interests in transactional seats (banking and finance, investment funds) and forget about litigation during the application process to enhance my chances?

@Jessica Booker @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman do you have any insights? I tried to follow the application guide, but unsuccessfully.

I am sorry to hear about the PFOs. Writing applications is like a muscle that constantly needs flexing. I assure you that despite those PFOs, you would have improved your writing skills - and that’s the most important thing beyond those rejection emails.

Another thing is that if you genuinely aren’t interested in the contentious practices as much, then that’s fine. It just requires you to apply to more transactional-focused law firms, since showcasing that link would be easier given your broader interests and experiences. That said, early on in your career I don’t recommend throwing away exploring that side too (this is me talking beyond the application stage). When the time comes, you can choose to do more rotations in transactional law, but at least one in a contentious seat. I have spoken to many lawyers who have mentioned that their qualification options shocked them. However, it all boils down to personal preference on your part.

Back to the topic of discussion. If you’re comfortable, you could post your answers to why law and why X firm on the forum, and I could review them and provide feedback.

 

[cjwx]

SH’s why law and why the firm questions are both 600 words. Would it be necessary to format that with introductions and conclusions. 600 words is kind of long but I wouldn’t think it’s long enough for that. @Amma Usman @Jessica Booker

 

[TC Chaser]

Hi everyone, I have just received an Invite for the Skadden interview. I'd appreciate any tips from anyone to aid in my preparation. Thanks.

 

[Zaidoz10]

Has anyone heard back from CMS Dubai office after the VI?

Haven’t even heard back post WG. When did you get the VI?

 

[Zaidoz10]

Could really use some urgent help - was just about to do the Clyde and co digital assessment but I got locked out of my cappfinity account. I don’t know what to do. Anyone have any idea what I can do right now?

 

[Lapistuskin]

hi, any tips for the Fieldfisher test invite? I really apprentice it. Thanks

 

[jta227]

hi, any tips for the Fieldfisher test invite? I really apprentice it. Thanks

Read the values on the site, be honest and that’s it really. The test is less than 5 mins

 

[VMS]

Has anyone else heard positively from the BBC other than @gimmeavacschemepls ? Wondering if they sent out all their acceptances today and Mon will be PFOs, or if there may be another batch to come out.

 

[summersun]

Has anyone else heard positively from the BBC other than @gimmeavacschemepls ? Wondering if they sent out all their acceptances today and Mon will be PFOs, or if there may be another batch to come out.

I haven't heard back so wondering the same thing....

 

[Synapser]

I haven't heard back so wondering the same thing....

On my login it says "process complete" but I haven't recieved any email stating outcome so not sure if this is a PFO

 

[VMS]

PFO post-penultimate round (written exercise and two VI questions) for the BBC.

Best of luck to anyone who has progressed with them!

 

[gazdgazd11]

anyone know if Shoosmiths recruit trainees from direct TC (officially ik it's a yes, but in practice?)

 

[The-PFO-Collector]

anyone know if Shoosmiths recruit trainees from direct TC (officially ik it's a yes, but in practice?)

Yes they do. Had an AC for their direct TC... must say most people I spoke to had 6 months + Paralegal exp

 

[gazdgazd11]

Hey guys, is DAC beachcroft’s personal summary meant to be the same as a cover letter?

 

[lou1707]

anyone know if Shoosmiths recruit trainees from direct TC (officially ik it's a yes, but in practice?)

I’m wondering the same for HFW

 

[InterestInPublicLaw]

Hi everyone, I may get a TC offer from a direct TC application in 2 weeks' time. However I have some other vac scheme applications that have progressed beyond application stage. I read that law firms need to give at least 4 weeks for offerees to decide whether to accept an offer. I am wondering, if I do manage to get an offer, and accept it, will it break any ethical standards by continuing to attend interviews / apply for vac schemes / direct TCs? In particular I would appreciate @Jessica Booker 's thoughts on this - I read some websites saying that I should withdraw from other firms' recruitment process. But I also read from one of your earlier responses that other firms wouldn't know if you have accepted an offer, which will be true unless they explicitly ask you on the application form. Do you have thoughts on that? Some firms only offer summer vac scheme and I won't be able to expedite the process

 

[InterestInPublicLaw]

anyone know if Shoosmiths recruit trainees from direct TC (officially ik it's a yes, but in practice?)

They only have direct TCs unless you apply for their Discover Placement which not everyone is eligible for and is not a vac scheme so definitely

 

[lucy_p]

Apologies if already mentioned.
Anyone heard back r.e Bristows TC?

 

[sibs23]

Hey guys, is DAC beachcroft’s personal summary meant to be the same as a cover letter?

I am interpreting it as not being the same as a cover letter. The bullet points above the question box seem to suggest that they are looking learn more about us, rather than a motivations focused question. I think there are ways to link motivations to your key achievements and interests which is what I have tried to do. I could be very wrong and I am still debating my approach hence why I have not yet submitted my application 😕

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

Hi everyone, I may get a TC offer from a direct TC application in 2 weeks' time. However I have some other vac scheme applications that have progressed beyond application stage. I read that law firms need to give at least 4 weeks for offerees to decide whether to accept an offer. I am wondering, if I do manage to get an offer, and accept it, will it break any ethical standards by continuing to attend interviews / apply for vac schemes / direct TCs? In particular I would appreciate @Jessica Booker 's thoughts on this - I read some websites saying that I should withdraw from other firms' recruitment process. But I also read from one of your earlier responses that other firms wouldn't know if you have accepted an offer, which will be true unless they explicitly ask you on the application form. Do you have thoughts on that? Some firms only offer summer vac scheme and I won't be able to expedite the process

Firms don’t have to give four weeks - it is just considered best practice if the TC or sponsored law school training is not starting fairly soon.

The voluntary code is just that - voluntary. There are no regulatory issues with accepting a TC and continuing to apply elsewhere. However, I have heard people having their applications withdrawn when they have said they have an existing accepted offer. This is different to holding an offer (that they haven’t decided on).