TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Ancika]

Is anyone willing to share their insights for the Reed Smith DTC AC? I have insights from NRF, HSFK.

 

[RS Sanjanaa]

Is the RPC test automatic?

 

[roo4]

hi all, not sure this is the right forum to ask but wondered if anyone had any insights into how long the process for applying for paralegal roles typically is - ie if i was hoping for a september start when should i start applying? thanks!

 

[spamelinazoid]

hi all, not sure this is the right forum to ask but wondered if anyone had any insights into how long the process for applying for paralegal roles typically is - ie if i was hoping for a september start when should i start applying? thanks!

1.5 months was mine. Started applying in October and got job offers mid November for a January start.

 

[Alaa]

hi all, not sure this is the right forum to ask but wondered if anyone had any insights into how long the process for applying for paralegal roles typically is - ie if i was hoping for a september start when should i start applying? thanks!

It really depends on the paralegal role and how you're applying. Direct applications to bigger firms tend to be slower. Once you accept an offer, there's usually a built-in delay of around a month before you start, and background checks or right to work checks can add further time. Recruitment agencies generally move faster, since they're often filling roles that need someone soon. "Immediate start" roles obviously skip most of the lead time, but those are the exception.

Given it's already July, if you're aiming for September, I'd start applying now rather than wait. Even a quick process needs buffer for interviews, an offer, and the notice/checks period before you start.

A couple of other things worth factoring in:

• If you're currently employed, don't forget your own notice period.
• Smaller firms / boutiques can sometimes turn things around in a couple of weeks if they need someone urgently.
• Worth asking recruiters directly what their average time to offer has been recently.

Good luck with the search!

 

[roo4]

It really depends on the paralegal role and how you're applying. Direct applications to bigger firms tend to be slower. Once you accept an offer, there's usually a built-in delay of around a month before you start, and background checks or right to work checks can add further time. Recruitment agencies generally move faster, since they're often filling roles that need someone soon. "Immediate start" roles obviously skip most of the lead time, but those are the exception.

Given it's already July, if you're aiming for September, I'd start applying now rather than wait. Even a quick process needs buffer for interviews, an offer, and the notice/checks period before you start.

A couple of other things worth factoring in:

• If you're currently employed, don't forget your own notice period.
• Smaller firms / boutiques can sometimes turn things around in a couple of weeks if they need someone urgently.
• Worth asking recruiters directly what their average time to offer has been recently.

Good luck with the search!

1.5 months was mine. Started applying in October and got job offers mid November for a January start.

thank you both so much i really appreciate!!

 

[shays]

for me, it took around 10 months, actually, and I was applying with two degrees and experience. That was a year ago. I was applying in London though, which tends to be really competitive and I was applying only for salaries above 28k pa, so definitely start applying sooner rather than later.

 

[radssss]

have u heard back from foot anstey yet??

Hey, I don’t know if you still want a response to this - I did a vacation scheme with them and we were the last lot to do ACs.