TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2023-4

[TC seeker]

Not Jessica, but just in my opinion, it depends on the firm - though I wouldn't say in any case its a "great disadvantage". Some firms (like Freshfields) do recruit a fairly large proportion from direct TCs, and these candidates are not disadvantaged compared to the VS counterparts, especially because I'm fairly sure that their VS is only available for those who are penultimate years. Some other firms also advertise that both routes are equally viable and it is totally up to you which you prefer. But for other firms (tend to be the US firms/smaller trainee intakes) the direct TC is not as prevalent a route, and there are apparently a few firms who filled up their TC spots with VS students and closed their TC route. That said, I wouldn't say that they start behind or are greatly disadvantaged, if the application is still open, there will be people they recruit through this route!

So Freshfields have same number of intake through VS and TC? Is it possible to secure Freshfields' TC even if I haven't done a vacation scheme before?

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

So Freshfields have same number of intake through VS and TC? Is it possible to secure Freshfields' TC even if I haven't done a vacation scheme before?

Very much so - historically around 50% of their trainees have not done a VS with the firm.

 

[Yesss]

They have responded to me with an invite for the first stage interview! This was yesterday.

They have responded to me with an invite for the first stage interview! This was yesterday.

Congratulations! Have they responded to anyone else who has done the 2026 TC application?

 

[sunnyd]

Congratulations! Have they responded to anyone else who has done the 2026 TC application?

Hiya! I'm not sure, I haven't had the chance to speak to anyone else who has. Hope that helps

 

[Tclarocks123]

Hi, has anyone heard from Haynes Boone?

not yet. Have you heard?

 

[SemperParatus]

Anyone heard from Slaughter and May?

 

[Lawlawlaw2]

Has anyone heard from WFW post-VI

 

[Gday33]

anyone hear from Mayer Brown for direct tc? 🥲

No but I’ve emailed them today as I’ve heard nothing post WG 3 months ago…

 

[SemperParatus]

I sent my slaughter and may application on Wednesday... starting to think I sent it too late, any thoughts?

 

[F12M34L]

Does anyone know if WFW is rolling or not rolling

 

[PlscanIhaveaTC]

Does anyone know if WFW is rolling or not rolling

I think they are. I received a PFO a few days ago and I know some people have received VI

 

[desperateTCseeker1998]

Does anyone know what the word limits are for Fried Frank? There don't seem to be any for the questions except for for the cover letter? If there aren't limits then what would be a good amount to aim for? 300?

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

Does anyone know what the word limits are for Fried Frank? There don't seem to be any for the questions except for for the cover letter? If there aren't limits then what would be a good amount to aim for? 300?

How many questions are there, are they competency questions, and what’s the word limit for the cover letter?

 

[desperateTCseeker1998]

How many questions are there, are they competency questions, and what’s the word limit for the cover letter?

The cover letter word limit is 500 words and the other questions are:
Please describe an achievement you are most proud of. What challenges did you face?

Please tell us why you believe commercial awareness is an important skill for a successful lawyer.

What challenges do you think Fried Franks clients are facing in respect to the changes in the UK economy and how can Fried Frank help them with these challenges?

Please use this section to write your cover letter to support your application (word limit is 500 words). *

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

The cover letter word limit is 500 words and the other questions are:
Please describe an achievement you are most proud of. What challenges did you face?

Please tell us why you believe commercial awareness is an important skill for a successful lawyer.

What challenges do you think Fried Franks clients are facing in respect to the changes in the UK economy and how can Fried Frank help them with these challenges?

Please use this section to write your cover letter to support your application (word limit is 500 words). *

I’d aim for no more than 1000 words across the three questions (not including the cover letter).

 

[evie99]

Does anyone know what type of case study Ashurst uses for the final partner interview? Is it an article based case study or a hypothetical deal scenario?

 

[TC seeker]

Anyone heard from Slaughter and May?

Do you know Slaughter and May has any online assessment or video interview?

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

Based on previous experience, does anyone know by when W&C come back to you on the outcome of your direct tc app and when they hold the ACs? (theyre non rolling so ofc I understand it's going to be after 14 July). Thanks.

 

[pb15]

anyone applied for Al Tamimi Training Contract?

hi yes I have

 

[gch1997]

Hi, has anyone got any tips for Withers online assessment, I always seem to struggle with these!