TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[user1738]

If they would pick DLA Piper over CMS I don’t think it’s morally wrong!

@user1738 I have seen this on DLA’s FAQs, not sure if this is a circumstance they could consider a direct TC route for, may be worth asking?

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Hi, thank you for this! I would actually pick CMS over DLA Piper. I’m extremely grateful + excited for the opportunity so I do appreciate the moral argument for not attending the VC.

My TC contract only restricts work carried once my TC is over, it does not mention anything re schemes before my start date in 2027.

I am not sure about restrictions re the VS. Is it worth asking Early Careers?

 

[user1738]

If you have already secured your preferred TC then may I ask why you would still want to do the VS?

I mean it’s valuable experience, good exposure to how an international law firm operates, boosts my CV etc…

 

[summersun]

I mean it’s valuable experience, good exposure to how an international law firm operates, boosts my CV etc…

not sure it really boosts you CV once you do your TC but in any case its your decision

 

[Futuretrainee002]

I mean it’s valuable experience, good exposure to how an international law firm operates, boosts my CV etc…

Also just wanna add that DLA is one of the few firms with an active waitlist for their VS, so if you already have a TC then I’d recommend letting someone else have a chance. Of course it’s completely up to you and no matter what you choose there is no wrong answer

 

[user1738]

Also just wanna add that DLA is one of the few firms with an active waitlist for their VS, so if you already have a TC then I’d recommend letting someone else have a chance. Of course it’s completely up to you and no matter what you choose there is no wrong answer

I’m sensing a strong general consensus haha I appreciate the advice! I will probably be declining the VS considering everything.

 

[sadboi]

Has anyone done a FF DTC AC before and would be willing to share their experience? I can share my experiences with Dechert, Davis Polk, Macfarlanes, JD, W&C and Willkie (All AC stages)

 

[DennyCrane]

I’m sensing a strong general consensus haha I appreciate the advice! I will probably be declining the VS considering everything.

I think you should definitely decline the VS. Ignoring the fact that you're taking away an opportunity from someone else, your new firm won't like it since it makes it look like you're not committed to them. It won't boost your CV in any way.

 

[EMB]

POV: You've just found out you didn't get the TC after your final interview, through someone else posting about it on LinkedIn. What happened to grad rec asking you not to post until they send you your contract, e.g reject everyone else

 

[CharlieandLola]

POV: You've just found out you didn't get the TC after your final interview, through someone else posting about it on LinkedIn. What happened to grad rec asking you not to post until they send you your contract, e.g reject everyone else

Can I ask what firm this is for?

 

[gibraial3014]

Has anyone done an AC with Freshfields?

For context, I've done a vac at Weil and AC's at: CC, Davis Polk, HSF, Sidley, Jones Day, White & Case and interviewed at STB (Paralegal) and Goodwin (Paralegal). Happy to share any insights on any of those firms!

Feel free to message me.

 

[Florencejones]

PMC direct TC it asks for a cover letter before you can proceed with the application, does any know if there are further application questions as well as this cover letter?

 

[sl0712]

Hi! I'm in the same situation as well. Were you able to figure out a solution / did they respond back to you?

Hi! They did not respond back to me unfortunately I just chose a random school

 

[MZJxLadha]

PMC direct TC it asks for a cover letter before you can proceed with the application, does any know if there are further application questions as well as this cover letter?

yes there are

 

[RachelZane]

Hi, @Abbie Whitlock

Do you possibly know what the final stage DTC interview for a US firm may look like? I already completed an assessment day (split into a written & group exercise & partner interview) and have heard there’s a next round but have no insights for what this interview and assessment could be? Do you know what I could be possibly assessed on?

 

[nonliquetagain]

Does anyone know what the final stage DTC interview for a US firm may look like? I already completed an assessment day (split into 2 exercises + partner interview) and have been progressed to the next round but have no insights for what the interview and assessment could be? Does anyone know what I could be possibly assessed on?

which firm is this for?

 

[givemeaTCalreadyT^T]

Hi all, I need some advice not sure if this is the right thread to consult. I’m extremely grateful to have accepted a TC with CMS Dubai commencing September 2027 and a VC with DLA Piper commencing June 2026.

Will this be an issue I need to make CMS aware of? Can I still complete the VC?

My anxiety is sky high, any advice would be so greatly appreciated.

Hi, congratulations! Can I ask when you applied and when your TC was for CMS Dubai?

 

[givemeaTCalreadyT^T]

It's a moot point

So not include it at all?

 

[TCchaser]

PMC direct TC it asks for a cover letter before you can proceed with the application, does any know if there are further application questions as well as this cover letter?

Yes, there are 2 more:

Tell us about a personal achievement outside of law that you’re proud of. What did it teach you? (max 250 words)

PMC has offices in several locations. How do you think our office locations support our work and client relationship and how could this be improved? Consider a new office opening or practice area expansion/addition (max 250 words)

 

[Jessica U]

Hi everyone,

I’m putting together a thread to collect 2025–26 law firm application questions to help candidates prepare for the next cycle. If you applied to any firms, it would be amazing if you could share the questions you received here. Thanks!

 

[FutureLawyer_]

Hey, has anyone done the sjt for Brabners? I would really appreciate any insight?