TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[24aa2001]

If other people received an AC today and I didn't does this mean PFO?

 

[Lawlawlaw2]

Does DWF send VIs in batches? Or if we did not receive one today means it’s a PFO?

 

[Tintin06]

Freshfields issuing a SJT randomly with no prior announcement is so strange. Those who attended the application masterclass will agree that this was not mentioned, there is no prior preparation and only those who pass will get their application reviewed.

It is a tough break, yes. Best of luck to you though. Seems like a last minute decision. Not clear how long we have. As in, three days to complete. Or it could be a week. Try to see the firm’s perspective. They get so many applicants, yearly. This helps to narrow it down.

 

[RTL]

Anyone here who applied for Kirkland's vac scheme hasn't heard anything back since submitting the application form Should I just assume PFO at this stage.

 

[sb04]

Hey, does anyone have any insights into the DWF VI that they'd be willing to share? I'm happy to trade insights in VIs for Reed Smith, Forsters, Weil, Clyde & Co, Mishcon, Simmons & Simmons, White & Case VI and AC last year, and Jones Day AC!

 

[LB24]

Kennedys AC!

Congrats! For which office?

 

[Zaidoz10]

I would email Grad Rec with a screenshot of the issues you’re facing and a detailed description of the situation. If you also can’t try logging in after attempting for like three times, it’s worth highlighting this in the email too. This has happened to me before and firm’s are usually understanding in such situations - I would not worry too much.

Thank you @Amma Usman! Thankfully I was able to access the account shortly after posting that on the thread. Thank you for your advice though!!

 

[hmevey]

Hi there. You can touch on anything really, from ESG, energy, AI, and the likes. There is no right answer, only your ability to connect it to the commercial and legal worlds, as this is what will help demonstrate your commercial awareness. There is also a tendency for applicants to talk a lot about topics like AI, but I presume it would not be much of an issue if you mention a common topic, provided you expand on it adequately. Another thing is that you do not have to equally split the word count, but I recommend doing so (or somewhat closely) to ensure you touch on each topic in depth.

I’ve linked an example of how I would personally approach this question in the context of ESG:

One significant challenge law firms will face over the next five years is managing the escalating demand for environmental, social, and governance (ESG)-related legal services amidst rapidly evolving regulations and stakeholder expectations. Governments worldwide are introducing stricter environmental legislation, such as carbon reduction targets and mandatory sustainability reporting, while investors and clients demand greater transparency and accountability in corporate operations.

For law firms, the challenge lies in providing clients with proactive and commercially viable solutions to meet these obligations while avoiding reputational and legal risks. This requires deep expertise in emerging ESG frameworks, sector-specific regulations, and litigation risks, as well as the ability to handle the increasing complexity of cross-border ESG issues. Moreover, firms must address their own ESG commitments to attract talent and clients who prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. Balancing the cost of internal transformation with maintaining profitability will test firms' strategic adaptability.

Law firms that effectively integrate ESG advisory into their practice and demonstrate leadership in this space will secure a competitive advantage, but those that fail to keep pace risk losing relevance in an increasingly sustainability-conscious market.

Thank you so much! I think i will just talk about two and try and go in depth. Would you recommend any resources to help research this question? I listen to the FT news briefing everyday but i still do not think my commercial awareness is good enough for the applications !

 

[Mug Fan]

Akin Gump PFO today. Feel like I’m in a decent place overall this cycle but PFO’s still sting!

 

[kokoprep]

If this is for the DTC route the online SJT won’t be sent until the 23rd January (deadline day).

This is based on what it says on the Freshfields grad rec website. 🙂🙂

Hi - Nothing about a date is said on the website anymore, I did remember seeing 27th the online test would be sent (which is removed now). Does anyone have any idea?

 

[TeeTee123!!]

Has anyone else heard back from DWF? Should I be worried if I haven’t?

 

[hmevey]

Will i be more successful if i apply to SH through the direct TC route or if i apply for a vac scheme? Does anyone have any takes?

 

[AlarmedBookkeeper448]

Hi - Nothing about a date is said on the website anymore, I did remember seeing 27th the online test would be sent (which is removed now). Does anyone have any idea?

Hey

The email they send is:

You will be invited to complete the Law Online Assessment on 27 January 2025after the application window has closed.

 

[Rhohia]

Bristows pfo. Spent ages on this app and knew a trainee who showed her app. So sad.

 

[kokoprep]

Hey

The email they send is:

You will be invited to complete the Law Online Assessment on 27 January 2025after the application window has closed.

Thank you so much, very helpful

 

[Mug Fan]

Bristows pfo. Spent ages on this app and knew a trainee who showed her app. So sad.

Same! 2 x PFO's today! 🤣

 

[Tintin06]

Hi - Nothing about a date is said on the website anymore, I did remember seeing 27th the online test would be sent (which is removed now). Does anyone have any idea?

This is what Freshfields’ email said: “You will be invited to complete the Law Online Assessment on 27 January 2025 after the application window has closed.”

 

[lillypad321]

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 Heard positively, Got sent the written assessment today

 

[LB24]

Has anyone else heard back from DWF? Should I be worried if I haven’t?

I got invited for the VI last week and the deadline for mine was tonight

 

[lucy_p]

Received invite for Bristows VI. Any tips greatly appreciated!