@nbjani when preparing for interviews, the first thing I tell myself is that I have full-control (at this stage). There is no set answer, and the correct answer comes from you (not them). So, you don’t need to study or learn deep concepts that you don’t already know. In fact, the correct answers come from you and most of the knowledge you need, if not all of it, is already in your head.
The preparation is just about understanding how to bring that knowledge out for certain questions. In this case, I’ve found that it is best to think about the sort of questions you’ll be asked e.g.
why law, why the firm, tell us about a time… etc. And, make bullet points for each one from your own knowledge. Then have a go at saying your answer out loud. It is important to not attempt reading from a script, so that you don’t tell yourself that you need to work off memory (which can actually take away from the natural feel of an interview, and can hinder your performance). Instead, leverage that list you prepared for guidance only.
In doing this, you’ll become more comfortable with yourself, and you’ll actually be able to bring in some of your personality, which I’m sure they would want to see.
As for commercial awareness/recent deals, this is where research will most definitely be required. However, after considering your study of why the firm, it should be easier to select a development/case that interests you or has some impact on the firm – as you’ll be able to cross-reference and analyse during your fact finding. I would recommend having a few of these, across different sectors or different talking points, just in case your interviewer focuses in on a particular aspect.
Good luck, and feel free to ask about anything that you’re struggling on during your prep!
