TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Hi, I’m thinking of applying to direct TC’s but I have been told often people aren’t hired or they don’t look at your applications? Also what kind of experience do you need? I’ve been a paralegal for 6 months in a decent firm and have 2:1 non law and commendation conversion degrees. Who should I be looking at applying to? I feel the process is so different to vacation schemes. TIA
 
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Hi, I’m thinking of applying to direct TC’s but I have been told often people aren’t hired or they don’t look at your applications? Also what kind of experience do you need? I’ve been a paralegal for 6 months in a decent firm and have 2:1 non law and commendation conversion degrees. Who should I be looking at applying to? I feel the process is so different to vacation schemes. TIA

There are some law firms with a DTC route only, and some have a relatively healthy DTC intake (meaning they don’t really prioritise vac schemers). First thing I’d check is the firms’ FAQs on this. If no available info I’d encourage you to email. And of course in contrast some firms make it quite clear their preference for vac schemers, and only take a handful trainees from the DTC route.
 
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