Hi!
I can only speak from my own experience, but I think doing a mix is probably the best approach if completing a vacation scheme is realistically possible alongside your paralegal role.
You are right that a lot of firms do recruit predominantly through the vacation scheme route, so I personally wouldn't completely rule those out if you have the flexibility to do one. At the same time, I definitely wouldn't view DTCs as a weaker route or think that only applying direct would put you at a major disadvantage across the board - plenty of firms hire meaningful numbers through DTC and for some candidates it makes a lot more sense.
For context, when I was applying last cycle, I had a year of paralegal experience and ended up applying to a mix of vacation schemes and DTCs as I wanted to keep my options open and recognised that different firms recruit differently. I ultimately secured my TC through a DTC application, so they are definitely still a viable route!
Given that you have already completed a vacation scheme before as well, I also wouldn't think of yourself as someone who necessarily needs another vacation scheme to prove interest or capability as you can draw on this existing experience in applications or interviews.
My overall instinct would be to apply to a mix if you can, but DTC only is definitely still a viable strategy, especially with paralegal and VS experience behind you.
Best of luck with the new role too!
