Case Study Practice - how to prepare?

loz

New Member
Jun 5, 2025
1
0
Hi everyone,

I recently had an interview with Slaughter and May and got a rejection a few days ago.
I am not sure whether maybe my case study report wasn't good enough (will try and ask) – anyhow, I've been wondering how everyone prepares for those? I didn't do an LLB in the UK, so I'm not sure if a lot of the case study practice usually happens as part of university law societies etc.
I have done the TCLA course case study but – if I remember correctly – there was only one business case study, and I am looking for sources that have a number of them (incl. suggested solution).

Thanks in advance for any tips :)
 

Amma Usman

Legendary Member
Staff member
Future Trainee
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 7, 2024
1,133
1,357
I’m really sorry to hear about the rejection. I know how tough that can be, especially after putting so much effort into the application process. I've been there myself more times than I can count, and I just want to say that how you're feeling now is completely valid, but also temporary. Resilience will carry you through this.

The fact that you made it to the AC stage is already such a strong indicator of your capability and potential. And the fact that you're still applying shows incredible determination. Please don’t lose sight of that.

On the case study front, you’re absolutely right to want to refine your preparation. Firms usually do offer feedback after assessment centres, either via email or a call. If you haven’t received anything yet, it might be worth following up with Graduate Recruitment, although do keep in mind that responses may be slower around this time of year because of vacation schemes.

In terms of prep, the structure and focus of a case study can vary, but there are definitely recurring themes. For example, M&A is a common one and typically involves questions around structuring an acquisition in a commercially efficient way. You might be expected to identify commercial risks, explain whether a deal should be structured as an asset or share purchase, or distinguish between a warranty and an indemnity and advise when each should be used.

No firm will expect you to master every possible type of case study. That would be unrealistic. But being familiar with the most common formats, especially in line with the firm’s dominant practice areas such as corporate, will definitely help. Also commercial awareness and keeping up on trends will help in applying issues to whatever case study you are given.

You’re also absolutely right that not having done a UK LLB isn’t a disadvantage. The fundamental skills like legal analysis, commercial reasoning, and structuring arguments are transferable. It might help to get familiar with a few UK-specific legal nuances such as contract or company law basics, but it's not a prerequisite to succeed.

If you’re looking for more practice, I highly recommend the M&A course on TCLA. LINK HERE: https://classes.thecorporatelawacademy.com/courses/author/1066518

Mahesh also walks through various case studies in the videos, which can be incredibly helpful to see the thought process in action.

You’re clearly on the right track. Keep going, and feel free to message us if you’d ever like to prep together or chat through any of this.
 


Write your reply...

About Us

The Corporate Law Academy (TCLA) was founded in 2018 because we wanted to improve the legal journey. We wanted more transparency and better training. We wanted to form a community of aspiring lawyers who care about becoming the best version of themselves.

Newsletter

Discover the most relevant business news, access our law firm analysis, and receive our best advice for aspiring lawyers.