TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Abbie Whitlock]

hi guys, do you think its worth me applying to Ashurst DTC? I don't have nearly the amount of legal work experience firms are looking for in a DTC applicant though... but I really like the firm and was planning on applying to their VS until I realised that I could no longer make the dates of their scheme. Is it worth spending time on despite the fact that chances are low? Or is time better spent on focusing on academics because lowkey I really need to catch up 😂 aka basically, do I have a realistic chance or is time better spent elsewhere?

Hi!

I'm not entirely sure how much Ashurst values legal experience for their Direct TC route, as this can differ between firms. However, if you have the time to submit a strong, tailored application, I would definitely encourage you to do so! Some firm's don't require much legal experience for their DTC route - I know a few people in my DTC cohort who had none.

If you genuinely like the firm and can clearly convey your motivations and interests, it's worth applying, especially if you can't attend their vacation scheme. In previous years, Ashurst has had a healthy DTC intake, so there's a realistic chance if your application is strong and well-structured

 

[elle woods]

Hi!

I'm not entirely sure how much Ashurst values legal experience for their Direct TC route, as this can differ between firms. However, if you have the time to submit a strong, tailored application, I would definitely encourage you to do so! Some firm's don't require much legal experience for their DTC route - I know a few people in my DTC cohort who had none.

If you genuinely like the firm and can clearly convey your motivations and interests, it's worth applying, especially if you can't attend their vacation scheme. In previous years, Ashurst has had a healthy DTC intake, so there's a realistic chance if your application is strong and well-structured

That's super true, thank you Abbie!

I'm just slightly worried if they were to grill me/question me as to why I can't attend their VS, I'd have to be honest and say I already have a scheme elsewhere at the same time...which might undermine my credibility in terms of my interest in the firm 😥 How would you recommend navigating this problem? I'm assuming this will be an issue in other ACs as well (if I even get any). How do I justify the fact that I've taken a VS offer somewhere else, but then say I really love the firm I'm interviewing at as it seems a little contradictory?

 

[yk1906]

That's super true, thank you Abbie!

I'm just slightly worried if they were to grill me/question me as to why I can't attend their VS, I'd have to be honest and say I already have a scheme elsewhere at the same time...which might undermine my credibility in terms of my interest in the firm 😥 How would you recommend navigating this problem? I'm assuming this will be an issue in other ACs as well (if I even get any). How do I justify the fact that I've taken a VS offer somewhere else, but then say I really love the firm I'm interviewing at as it seems a little contradictory?

I'm not Abbie, but in my view, securing a VS would mean that you are desirable on the market!! Which is a great thing, and I think law firms want strong candidates. It's also completely normal to apply to many firms; it doesn't undermine your motivation for a particular one. Goodwin even asks you which other firms you have applied to.

 

[splash17]

Have non law applicants heard back from Slaughter and May?

Hi! I'm a non law applicant and just received a DTC interview invite today. I applied on 23/10.