Ask Reed Smith Anything! (2025-26)

[ReedSmithBecca]

Hi Becca, thank you so much for your help! Just to clarify, when you say you do not analyse grades beyond making sure someone meets the minimum criteria, does that mean there’s no advantage for someone with a high 2:1 over someone with a mid or low 2:1 at the application review stage? Thanks again!

Yes, that is correct, we have a minimum entry requirement, but beyond that the area we place most emphasis on at the initial application stage is answers to the written application form. We wouldn't reject a candidate just for having a low 2:1 for example.

 

[CG_101]

Yes, that is correct, we have a minimum entry requirement, but beyond that the area we place most emphasis on at the initial application stage is answers to the written application form. We wouldn't reject a candidate just for having a low 2:1 for example.

Hi Becca,
this is super reassuring to hear. I have a 67% average from Oxbridge across first and second year, but one of my grades is a 2.2, arguably with extenuating circumstances. I understand my average is definitely okay, but would the single 2.2 grade be an issue? It is not in a really relevant subject like contract, tort or commercial.

I am strong in other areas like work experience, A levels and achievements.

 

[ReedSmithBecca]

Hi Becca,
this is super reassuring to hear. I have a 67% average from Oxbridge across first and second year, but one of my grades is a 2.2, arguably with extenuating circumstances. I understand my average is definitely okay, but would the single 2.2 grade be an issue? It is not in a really relevant subject like contract, tort or commercial.

I am strong in other areas like work experience, A levels and achievements.

Yes, to confirm the previous answer, we are looking for an average 2:1, so a single 2:2 grade is not an issue.

 

[Logan1101]

I had ECs that affected my final mark in my third year at university, but still ended with a 2.1, albeit a really low one. Should I mention this in my application?

Also, would it be worth mentioning an internship done with another law firm? I completed a unique internship working in-house for 2 weeks, then private practice for one week. Although this is relevant experience, it could undermine my application as the internship was with a smaller national firm as opposed to an international firm like Reed Smith.

Lastly, are there any requirements for the SQE apart from passing? I read that certain firms would want results in the first quintile? I'm currently completing an SQE course and plan to sit the exams next year.

 

[ReedSmithBecca]

I had ECs that affected my final mark in my third year at university, but still ended with a 2.1, albeit a really low one. Should I mention this in my application?

Also, would it be worth mentioning an internship done with another law firm? I completed a unique internship working in-house for 2 weeks, then private practice for one week. Although this is relevant experience, it could undermine my application as the internship was with a smaller national firm as opposed to an international firm like Reed Smith.

Lastly, are there any requirements for the SQE apart from passing? I read that certain firms would want results in the first quintile? I'm currently completing an SQE course and plan to sit the exams next year.

Hi, if you still received a 2:1 then you wouldn't need to, but feel free to briefly detail them if they might be ongoing circumstances that you could require an adjustment for, or if you feel the context is useful.

Yes, I would definitely mention other legal internships or non-legal work experience, even if it doesn't feel directly relevant. We are looking for potential and transferable skills which can definitely be demonstrated from the above. I would encourage you to reflect on what you gained - e.g it might have reinforced your view that commercial law vs another type of law firm is right for you. Also consider what skills you gained and how these could transfer to RS.

For SQE, we don't have a specific quintile requirement.

 

[Blueberry26]

Hi Reed Smith Team! Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions.

I would love to know:

- What initiatives does the firm have to promote cultural diversity and awareness? For example, are there employee networks for different groups, eg, Women Network, Visible Minority Network, etc. (Are there opportunities to organise events for Asian Heritage Month, Black History Month, Ramadan, etc)?

- What support does the firm offer trainees during the TC beyond mentorship and structured learning sessions? For example, are there practical workshops available on skills like Communication, Project Management, etc.?

- Can you provide details on what sort of support is involved in the Trainee Academy? Is it workshops, virtual courses, or mentorship?

- Are there opportunities for trainees to participate in the firm's innovation and legal tech strides? For example, a dedicated Legal Tech Seat or opportunities to share innovative solutions?

 

[Destiny - Reed Smith]

Hi!

I'm Destiny Dunn-Browne, and I'm an SQE intern in the firm, currently completing my PSQE placement in Early Careers!

More than happy to help - please drop any questions in the thread! ☺️

- Destiny

 

[Abbie - Reed Smith]

Hi everyone!

My name is Abbie Whitlock, and I am a future trainee and current SQE Intern in the Early Careers team at Reed Smith! ☺️

If you have any questions about the DTC application process or the PSQE placement, feel free to add them to this thread!

 

[Christelle - Reed Smith]

Hi everyone!

My name is Christelle Dantziguian, and I am a future trainee and current SQE Intern in the Early Careers team at Reed Smith ☺️

If you have any questions about the application process or the PSQE placement, feel free to add them to this thread!

 

[Blueberry26]

Hi Future Trainees,.I had a few questions about you experience at Reed Smith;

- how did you manage interview jitters?

- how did you go about 'selling yourself' in interviews to the firm?

- what is one thing you think made you stand out to Reed Smith?

- what is your most memorable experience or project you have worked on at Reed Smith so far?

- Can you provide a specific example of how you felt supported in Reed Smith's culture? Maybe a specific event, initiative, network etc.

Thank you!