know this is an incredibly privileged position to be in but I’ve gotten two amazing training contract offers one is amazing money but also horrible work life balance, one is a good law firm but less so and less money but I think I’d be happier there, lots to think about
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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
I once got told that the reputation of the firm is the most important thing when training as it means you can leave after and it opens more doors. But at the end of the day, if you won’t be happy at the other place then that ‘ll show in the work you produce and connections made. I don’t know if this helps!
you should give us all tips on how you did it. I saw in a previous post that you have two offers. You are doing amazing
Hey!
Firstly, huge congratulations!! That is an amazing position to be in and clearly well earned
I wouldn't feel guilty for finding it difficult just because both options are objectively good - sometimes choosing between two good opportunities can be harder than having one clear option.
I would probably think about questions like: where do you think you'll learn best, who did you click with more, which trainees seemed happier, and which version of your life you'd actually want in 2-3 years' time. As others have mentioned, training at a larger firm with a good reputation can sometimes be more beneficial when perhaps looking to move laterally at NQ level, but it is ultimately down to what your career goals are!
Either way, having two amazing offers means there probably isn't a disastrous choice here either way - it is more about what fits you and your goals best. Congratulations again, and I wish you the best of luck with your decision!
PFO from Bakers post VI. There’s one thing I have always been uncertain about Bakers. It’s one of the few firms that doesn’t require or fund the PGDL. I know Bakers has partnered with Barbri to offer the SQE course. For those who also applied for Bakers, were you concerned about having no PGDL? Could someone here kindly enlighten me about the importance of PGDL for a legal career? Would lacking a “proper” law qualification hinder success?
No, PGDL is not my main concern, i am non law as well, but since SRA no longer mandate students for a formal law degree, it's just optional. I am more worried about firm which can't sponsor visa over those who don't pay for PGDL. I'd rather at firm who use the money for something else like wellbeing or sponsorship for efficiency. Barbri is a good platform, but not for you who never touched the basics of law. You need to be proactive to find resources outside as well, like eg. you can buy/borrow ULaw SQE module books without studying there.
Wedlake Bell PFO (post-app)
Wedlake Bell PFO too
Any news (positive or negative) from Morgan Lewis or S&C?
No. Not for Morgan Lewis, They said the firm does not recruit on a rolling basis and therefore candidates will only be contacted regarding their application once the deadline has passed.
RS PFO - Womp Womp
AC invite from Reed Smith. I would be so grateful if anyone has any advice for the assessment centre.
I’ve still not heard anything either. Likewise, just assuming a PFO at this stage though.
The heightened sense of anxiety that I get when firms start sending out PFOs and invites is insane 
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