TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

I want to do some DTC application but I am very aware of the fact that I have never done a VS and I don't have much legal work experience. At the moment, I am working on both but would that necessarily be a deal breaker for firms?

 

[Applicant7874652]

Any news from McDermott for those who applied?

 

[1136PX0]

I want to do some DTC application but I am very aware of the fact that I have never done a VS and I don't have much legal work experience. At the moment, I am working on both but would that necessarily be a deal breaker for firms?

It largely depends on the firm. At the end of my second year, I applied to Ashurst's DTC and made it to the final round without any legal experience (only open days). But I have heard that other firms (Macs, HL) tend to be more picky about the exp required for the DTC route.

But regardless, I would still apply to the firm you're interested in unless explicitly told by grad rec that they prefer experience for these routes. You have nothing to lose

 

[justagirl23]

anyone else hear back from freshfields for ac or pfo, seems like they were giving out both early this week.

 

[shebecomesalawyer]

anyone else hear back from freshfields for ac or pfo, seems like they were giving out both early this week.

still waiting!

 

[T. Rainee]

same here re freshfields

 

[soph107048]

Are there any firms that accept DTC apps from penultimate yr law students?

 

[sapphireoreos]

Is it worth applying to HL DTC if you’ve had some internships but no extensive experience (e.g. paralegal experience)

 

[shebecomesalawyer]

Is it worth applying to HL DTC if you’ve had some internships but no extensive experience (e.g. paralegal experience)

I would say always apply - you never know!

 

[ladyhaleinthehouse]

Hey - I saw that a few people have been receiving PFOs/AC invites for Freshfields DTC this week. Did anyone complete Stage 2 in October/November and still not heard anything?

 

[HMajesty]

So my Uni allows retakes to improve grades. I’ve passed all exams on first attempt, but I’m considering retaking 2 exams in which my faculty was changed mid-semester and I feel I could’ve done better in those. Do I need to disclose these retakes considering I passed my exams in first try?

 

[tc_cc]

Irwin Mitchell PFO, gutted

 

[eoliver6]

Irwin Mitchell PFO, gutted

Which office? Sorry to hear

 

[tc_cc]

Which office? Sorry to hear

Bristol

 

[justagirl23]

Hey - I saw that a few people have been receiving PFOs/AC invites for Freshfields DTC this week. Did anyone complete Stage 2 in October/November and still not heard anything?

same completed stage 2 around 26 nov and still havent heard anything back

 

[jj238]

Have Baker Mckenzie sent ACs out?

I don't think so. Have you completed the video interview?

 

[Scottishlion]

same completed stage 2 around 26 nov and still havent heard anything back

Did u get a feedback report? I didn’t and am a bit worried

 

[lawcool]

Did u get a feedback report? I didn’t and am a bit worried

I did mine 17th December but I didn’t either

 

[LegallyBrunette_]

I did mine 17th December but I didn’t either

I did mine mid November and I didn't receive a feedback report.

 

[LiveLaughLawyer]

Hey,
Could anyone please provide insight or advice into the Kennedys assessment centre ? I'm happy to help with firms CMS, Baker Mckenzie, Clifford Chance, Charles Russell Speechlys, ,Mishcon de Reya, White and Case. Thank you!