Ask Willkie Farr & Gallagher Anything!

[Deleted member 37508]

Hi @andrecsaa We have approx 20 vac schemers across the year and approx 6 to 7 training contracts. We don't have any assessments once the vac scheme position has been accepted, our reviews are via feedback from the scheme itself.

many thanks
Gemma

This is an interest way of assessing compared to other US firms. Could I ask why you’ve opted for no assessments throughout the vacation scheme does this include no interview at the end. I know Willkie is known for the people so is this approach taken at an early stage to find those who suit the culture.

In addition to my question above after completing the written exercise the next stage is an interview is this in person with fee earners and how many are invited to these interviews from the written exercise.

 

[WillkieGemma]

This is an interest way of assessing compared to other US firms. Could I ask why you’ve opted for no assessments throughout the vacation scheme does this include no interview at the end. I know Willkie is known for the people so is this approach taken at an early stage to find those who suit the culture.

In addition to my question above after completing the written exercise the next stage is an interview is this in person with fee earners and how many are invited to these interviews from the written exercise.

Hi @IneedaTCASAP - we front load all of our assessments (application form, video interview, written exercise and partner interview) prior to the vac scheme. There is no need for any further assessment.

The partner interview can be in person or over Zoom, this is up to the candidate. The number invited changes every year.

 

[Deleted member 37508]

Hi @IneedaTCASAP - we front load all of our assessments (application form, video interview, written exercise and partner interview) prior to the vac scheme. There is no need for any further assessment.

The partner interview can be in person or over Zoom, this is up to the candidate. The number invited changes every year.

Many thanks for responding. This is a great way of assessing candidates ensuring they have motivation for the firm before embarking on the scheme itself.

 

[andrecsaa]

Hi @andrecsaa We have approx 20 vac schemers across the year and approx 6 to 7 training contracts. We don't have any assessments once the vac scheme position has been accepted, our reviews are via feedback from the scheme itself.

many thanks
Gemma

Thank you, Gemma!

 

[Sim96]

Hi @WillkieGemma

I would be grateful for your advice, if possible (slightly time sensitive). I am seriously applying for TCs.

I was wrongly guided by someone at A&O that I should take the QLTS to enhance chances for a training contract (TC). I passed with flying colours in 2022.

Since I am English qualified most firms say Iam not eligible as the TC is for non-qualified lawyers or their candidates need to be “signed off with SRA”. I am NQ on paper but since litigation is jurisdiction specific I’ve been told a TC is better (my main route to London). My qualification as an English lawyer is a big hurdle. So, I am stuck with the present situation.

Your advice:
1. Should I (i) check my eligibility first before applying or (ii) just apply and mention my English qualification in the application saying I would like for it to be viewed not as a disqualification but as an enhancement? Each application takes considerable time.

2. If I should check first, how to best present myself to HR to avoid them saying no? Some ideas I had for your views:

"I am a dual-qualified solicitor in India and England. As opposed to an Associate role, I wish to apply for a training contract at your firm for a few reasons.

• I did not undertake a training contract in England through qualifying via the QLTS. I am now seeking that experience
• I am new to English law and wish to gain exposure to this through a training contract. My work experience has been offshore and in India.
• I am keen on the training under Partners like Rebecca Williams and Gary Walsh and receive training on responding to client queries, drafting, while balancing commercial interests with practical advice
• I want exposure to different seats to decide which department I wish to qualify into
• The SRA has informed me that from their end, I am eligible for a training contract and there is no issue
• I believe I will be able to contribute more to the firm as my solicitor qualification has enabled me me to understand the workings of a law firm, client needs, better assist the team"

My background

• 19- Graduated & India qualified
• 19-22- CAM
• 22- English qualified
• 22-23 - Jersey (Ogier)
• 24- Debenhams Ottaway, St Albans
• Now - LLM, Queen Mary

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi @WillkieGemma

I would be grateful for your advice, if possible (slightly time sensitive). I am seriously applying for TCs.

I was wrongly guided by someone at A&O that I should take the QLTS to enhance chances for a training contract (TC). I passed with flying colours in 2022.

Since I am English qualified most firms say Iam not eligible as the TC is for non-qualified lawyers or their candidates need to be “signed off with SRA”. I am NQ on paper but since litigation is jurisdiction specific I’ve been told a TC is better (my main route to London). My qualification as an English lawyer is a big hurdle. So, I am stuck with the present situation.

Your advice:
1. Should I (i) check my eligibility first before applying or (ii) just apply and mention my English qualification in the application saying I would like for it to be viewed not as a disqualification but as an enhancement? Each application takes considerable time.

2. If I should check first, how to best present myself to HR to avoid them saying no? Some ideas I had for your views:

"I am a dual-qualified solicitor in India and England. As opposed to an Associate role, I wish to apply for a training contract at your firm for a few reasons.

• I did not undertake a training contract in England through qualifying via the QLTS. I am now seeking that experience
• I am new to English law and wish to gain exposure to this through a training contract. My work experience has been offshore and in India.
• I am keen on the training under Partners like Rebecca Williams and Gary Walsh and receive training on responding to client queries, drafting, while balancing commercial interests with practical advice
• I want exposure to different seats to decide which department I wish to qualify into
• The SRA has informed me that from their end, I am eligible for a training contract and there is no issue
• I believe I will be able to contribute more to the firm as my solicitor qualification has enabled me me to understand the workings of a law firm, client needs, better assist the team"

My background

• 19- Graduated & India qualified
• 19-22- CAM
• 22- English qualified
• 22-23 - Jersey (Ogier)
• 24- Debenhams Ottaway, St Albans
• Now - LLM, Queen Mary

Hi @Sim96

As you are a qualified solicitor of England and Wales, you would not therefore be eligible for a training contract. I think the vast majority of firms will have the same response, so I cannot advise on next steps.

Best of luck in your search,
Gemma

Hi @WillkieGemma

I would be grateful for your advice, if possible (slightly time sensitive). I am seriously applying for TCs.

I was wrongly guided by someone at A&O that I should take the QLTS to enhance chances for a training contract (TC). I passed with flying colours in 2022.

Since I am English qualified most firms say Iam not eligible as the TC is for non-qualified lawyers or their candidates need to be “signed off with SRA”. I am NQ on paper but since litigation is jurisdiction specific I’ve been told a TC is better (my main route to London). My qualification as an English lawyer is a big hurdle. So, I am stuck with the present situation.

Your advice:
1. Should I (i) check my eligibility first before applying or (ii) just apply and mention my English qualification in the application saying I would like for it to be viewed not as a disqualification but as an enhancement? Each application takes considerable time.

2. If I should check first, how to best present myself to HR to avoid them saying no? Some ideas I had for your views:

"I am a dual-qualified solicitor in India and England. As opposed to an Associate role, I wish to apply for a training contract at your firm for a few reasons.

• I did not undertake a training contract in England through qualifying via the QLTS. I am now seeking that experience
• I am new to English law and wish to gain exposure to this through a training contract. My work experience has been offshore and in India.
• I am keen on the training under Partners like Rebecca Williams and Gary Walsh and receive training on responding to client queries, drafting, while balancing commercial interests with practical advice
• I want exposure to different seats to decide which department I wish to qualify into
• The SRA has informed me that from their end, I am eligible for a training contract and there is no issue
• I believe I will be able to contribute more to the firm as my solicitor qualification has enabled me me to understand the workings of a law firm, client needs, better assist the team"

My background

• 19- Graduated & India qualified
• 19-22- CAM
• 22- English qualified
• 22-23 - Jersey (Ogier)
• 24- Debenhams Ottaway, St Albans
• Now - LLM, Queen Mary

HI @Sim96

Thanks for your message. I'm afraid that our TC route is open to those who are not yet qualified in England Wales, and I think most firms would be the same. My advice to you would be to apply for qualified roles, or paralegal roles.

Many thanks
Gemma

 

[Sim96]

Hi @Sim96

As you are a qualified solicitor of England and Wales, you would not therefore be eligible for a training contract. I think the vast majority of firms will have the same response, so I cannot advise on next steps.

Best of luck in your search,
Gemma

HI @Sim96

Thanks for your message. I'm afraid that our TC route is open to those who are not yet qualified in England Wales, and I think most firms would be the same. My advice to you would be to apply for qualified roles, or paralegal roles.

Many thanks
Gemma

Thank you so much!

 

[AI212121]

Good afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I had a question regarding those picked for a training contract following the vacation scheme. Is it solely based on how well the candidate completed the work given to them or are other aspects also taken into account? For example, would working well with other people, matching the culture of the firm, showing enthusiasm, being a hard worker, etc., be considered, or is it really just the quality of their work in the tasks completed?

Thank you!

 

[WillkieGemma]

Good afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I had a question regarding those picked for a training contract following the vacation scheme. Is it solely based on how well the candidate completed the work given to them or are other aspects also taken into account? For example, would working well with other people, matching the culture of the firm, showing enthusiasm, being a hard worker, etc., be considered, or is it really just the quality of their work in the tasks completed?

Thank you!

Hi @AI212121 we take a holistic view of every candidate in terms of their approach as well as their ability.

 

[KBanana]

Good afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I hope you are well.

Unfortunately, just as I was about to submit my Willkie application, the portal changed and is now requiring me to upload a CV and cover letter instead of answering the three supporting application questions (I have attached a screenshot of this). Could you please advise on what I should do? Thank you!

 

[WillkieGemma]

Good afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I hope you are well.

Unfortunately, just as I was about to submit my Willkie application, the portal changed and is now requiring me to upload a CV and cover letter instead of answering the three supporting application questions (I have attached a screenshot of this). Could you please advise on what I should do? Thank you!

Hi @KBanana - we don't ask for a CV, so this is a glitch. I have contacted Candid, who will rectify the issue. Thanks for letting me know.

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi @KBanana - we don't ask for a CV, so this is a glitch. I have contacted Candid, who will rectify the issue. Thanks for letting me know.

hi @KBanana this has now been resolved.

 

[KBanana]

hi @KBanana this has now been resolved.

Thank you, Gemma! I've just uploaded my application without any issues.

 

[evianmineral]

Hi Gemma,

If I make it to the VI stage, I'd like to do it before the 21st (away for xmas) - how long on average does it take to go from submitting the app to knowing if you are through to the next stage or not?

Thank you very much

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi Gemma,

If I make it to the VI stage, I'd like to do it before the 21st (away for xmas) - how long on average does it take to go from submitting the app to knowing if you are through to the next stage or not?

Thank you very much

Hi @evianmineral, it very much depends on my workload but generally it takes 5 to 15 working days to hear from me.

 

[evianmineral]

Hi @evianmineral, it very much depends on my workload but generally it takes 5 to 15 working days to hear from me.

Thank you very much

 

[sunshine101]

Hi Gemma,

I am going to make an application for Willkie, but feel like 250 words is not enough to express my interests because there are multiple reasons (I really like the firm). Do we have additional opportunities during the process to convey other motivations?

Thank You

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi Gemma,

I am going to make an application for Willkie, but feel like 250 words is not enough to express my interests because there are multiple reasons (I really like the firm). Do we have additional opportunities during the process to convey other motivations?

Thank You

Hi @sunshine101 - the application form is exactly the same for everyone, with all candidates receiving the same word count to express interest. It's important to focus on a few key areas with clear motivation and thoroughness, rather than mention everything but actually say very little. In terms of other stages in the application process, we do cover motivation again, yes.

 

[sunshine101]

Hi @sunshine101 - the application form is exactly the same for everyone, with all candidates receiving the same word count to express interest. It's important to focus on a few key areas with clear motivation and thoroughness, rather than mention everything but actually say very little. In terms of other stages in the application process, we do cover motivation again, yes.

Thank You Gemma !

 

[sunshine101]

Hi Gemma,

In the work experience section, would it be ok for me to focus on certain situations where I made an impact rather than just listing the skills.

Thank You !