TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Novaa]

Just remembered I’m going to have to do maths in an Amberjack soon 💔

 

[Meg_Thee_Applicant]

Guys anyone know if Stephenson Harwood amberjack is automatic? Submitted app yday and haven’t got a link so maybe they review first?

 

[Laurel Lance - Black Canary]

Guys anyone know if Stephenson Harwood amberjack is automatic? Submitted app yday and haven’t got a link so maybe they review first?

It's selective, so you must pass the app stage first at least for DTC is non-rolling

 

[TortillaTC]

It's selective, so you must pass the app stage first at least for DTC is non-rolling

And I think for the vac scheme it’s rolling but they review every application received by the deadline - correct me if I’m wrong

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

does anyone have any advice on how best to approach a client letter of advice/client brief? thanks so much

Hello!

I have previously made a post on how I would approach a client email written exercise - I have quoted it below! In terms of translating this to a client letter, the core principles are likely to be the same (e.g. audience, clarity, structure), but the tone and formatting tend to be slightly more formal. I'd perhaps think of it as a more polished version of a client email - use clear headings, full sentences, and a logical flow of information. You could also include a brief introduction that sets out the purpose of the letter, as well as a short conclusion that summarise the main advice and any next steps.

In terms of client communication in any format, it's especially important to explain the law in plain English and keep the advice practical and client-focused. If in doubt, I would prioritise clarity over specific legal detail - the graduate recruitment team likely want to see that you are putting yourself in the client's shoes, and have an understanding of what they would prioritise.

I hope that helps, and best of luck!

Of course, no problem at all!!

Since client emails are such a common format in written exercises, it's definitely worth getting comfortable with how to approach them! A few things that I kept in mind when preparing:

Understand the Purpose and Audience

Before you start writing, clarify who you are writing to (e.g. a client, supervisor, or a colleague) and what information they need from you. The tone, level of formality, and structure will vary depending on whether it's an internal email or an email to an external client.

For example, if you are emailing a client, you want to ensure that they are able to understand any legal principles that you are outlining in your email. As such, it's important to make sure you write it in layman's terms and don't just recite the information given in the materials. However, if you are emailing a supervisor, I would focus on highlighting the most important pieces of information as you are effectively trying to save them time in going through the materials themselves. I would always aim to write in a professional way, and frame it like you would an actual email - such as a subject line and a closing sentence.

Use a Clear and Logical Structure

The main thing that I changed when approaching written exercises was making sure that I had a clear and logical structure. A good client email should be easy to follow. A simple structure could look like:

1. Opening: A brief, polite greeting and context for why you're writing (and what you'll be discussing in the email). If you're emailing a supervisor, it might be useful to include a short summary of your findings at the top (i.e. an early conclusion), and then go into more detail below.
2. Main Body: Summarise the key points or advice clearly and concisely, using short paragraphs. It might be appropriate to use headings and subtitles, especially if there is a lot of information. The goal is to make sure that the client can follow along, and that it isn't just a massive wall of text that is difficult to read.
3. Closing: End with next steps, an offer of assistance, or a polite sign-off (e.g. "Please let me know if you'd like to discuss further"). These elements distinguish an email exercise from a general report or memo, and shows that you are following the brief exactly! If you are emailing a supervisor, I would try to show some proactivity in the closing parts - such as offering to write a first draft of a document or client email.

Keep your tone professional and approachable

I would aim for clear, confident language without being overly formal (but still professional). This can be tricky, but phrases such as "I'd recommend..." or "It may be helpful..." strike a nice balance. Avoid overly technical language or long-winded phrasing - simplicity often conveys professionalism! As stated above, I would definitely avoid legal jargon if you are writing to a client, unless you are certain that a client would understand it.

Also remember that tone can shift slightly depending on the client's relationship with the firm. If you are told this information, a longstanding client might suit a warmer tone, whilst a first-time contact may call for a more formal approach. However, if in doubt, I would always go for a more formal approach - especially in a professional context!

Be precise and client-focused

Remember the purpose for why you are actually writing to the client, and tailor your response to the client's actual issue. I would avoid copying large chunks of background information from the brief (as the client will already have this information!) - instead, demonstrate understanding of their issue by reframing the key points in your own words and applying them directly to the client's situation. Make sure to keep your advice practical - clients care more about what they should do next than about the legal theory behind it. You might find it useful to use signposting phrases such as "In summary..." or "Based on the information provided..." to make your reasoning easy to follow. If there are uncertainties, I would make sure to address them but be reassuring - e.g. "Further details would be needed to confirm this position, but at this stage...".

Check for clarity and tone at the end

Before your time runs out, take a moment to review your email. I always found it helpful to read it aloud (if possible) or follow along with my finger - this helps you catch sentences that are too long, unclear, or sound abrupt. Look for opportunities to simplify, and if a sentence takes more than one breath to read, it's probably too long! Make sure your sign-off fits the context (things such as "Kind regards" or "Best wishes" usually work best). The graduate recruitment team / assessors will be looking for professionalism in formatting and presentation - consistent spacing, clear paragraphing, and correct spelling and grammar will all make a strong impression.

As a practical tip to practice: You could start by taking short case studies and draft sample emails that summarise your advice in 200-300 words. This helps you get used to organising your thoughts quickly and writing in a professional, accessible way.

I hope that helps!

 

[qwerty!]

Hello!

I have previously made a post on how I would approach a client email written exercise - I have quoted it below! In terms of translating this to a client letter, the core principles are likely to be the same (e.g. audience, clarity, structure), but the tone and formatting tend to be slightly more formal. I'd perhaps think of it as a more polished version of a client email - use clear headings, full sentences, and a logical flow of information. You could also include a brief introduction that sets out the purpose of the letter, as well as a short conclusion that summarise the main advice and any next steps.

In terms of client communication in any format, it's especially important to explain the law in plain English and keep the advice practical and client-focused. If in doubt, I would prioritise clarity over specific legal detail - the graduate recruitment team likely want to see that you are putting yourself in the client's shoes, and have an understanding of what they would prioritise.

I hope that helps, and best of luck!

Thank you so much Abbie!!

 

[Wanda Maximoff]

Has anyone heard back from Sidley Austin for Spring VS?

 

[radssss]

Has anyone received an interview invite for withers for SUMMER VAC SCHEME?

 

[sadlawyer01]

haha well I'm not 100% sure about that, but it does seem that way at the moment!

Most VIs have been for spring afaik

hi elle did you apply for spring or summer?

 

[R2D2]

Hey everyone,

There are few apps that I did ages ago and have heard nothing (Gibson, Sidley, Freshfields DTC), in my mind I have assumed a PFO. But then there is Cleary which I gave the WG early December and haven't heard back, should I email them on Monday?

 

[TortillaTC]

So it’s not rolling for vac scheme either?

And I think for the vac scheme it’s rolling but they review every application received by the deadline - correct me if I’m wrong

 

[floraaaaaa]

Has everyone alr heard back from Linklaters for the Spring VS?

 

[Afraz Akhtar]

Hey everyone,

There are few apps that I did ages ago and have heard nothing (Gibson, Sidley, Freshfields DTC), in my mind I have assumed a PFO. But then there is Cleary which I gave the WG early December and haven't heard back, should I email them on Monday?

Hey @R2D2 personally I don't see any harm in reaching out, however as it is a fairly automated process, you will eventually get a response. The most they can say now is that they are still currently reviewing applications and will be in touch once they have made a decision.

 

[adi_shinde_]

Does anyone know how the mishcon consider the SJT? I got a high in numerical and verbal and all 3 competencies but quite low on grit so not sure how I did overall.

 

[elle woods]

hi elle did you apply for spring or summer?

spring :>

 

[safari3]

Hi all, did anyone else on this forum receive a Mishcon Spring AC on Friday except for @NorthernerInLondon?

 

[nonlawstudent98]

I was wondering whether anyone who has done the Skadden interview might please be willing to provide some insights? I was just wondering if the questions were heavily focused on your application?

 

[username10341034]

Have all of the Spring Mishcon AC invites gone out 🥲 does this mean it’s a PFO

 

[floraaaaaa]

Does anyone know how the mishcon consider the SJT? I got a high in numerical and verbal and all 3 competencies but quite low on grit so not sure how I did overall.

I'm yet to sit mine but have never done a SJT before how did you find it haha and also was the maths hard? Also would assume if you got high on most then hopefully it will balance out. Best of luck.

 

[pleasepleaseplease]

Hi there! Congrats on getting to the SJT stage - if you don't mind, could you share your experience of the chatbot interview and what it generally consisted of? thanks!

@Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner @jamieclarke sorry what are the laugh reacts for?