TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[Tintin06]

While echoing @Chris Brown that you don't need 1000 words, I think writing that much wouldn't be that difficult. I think it's best to use the word count for the "Why this firm" section. On the other hand, I try to keep "Why commercial law" quite brief no matter the word count. So I'd go with 150-500-350 words for the three sections (why law - why this firm - why me). I think this structure has worked well for me in the past, and it's not difficult to write once you've extensively researched the firm. I actually often really struggle to confine "Why this firm?" to 300 words. Of course, none of this is rigid, just make sure you're really selling yourself and your motivation.

I used all 1,000 words lol. Thanks for the tips on this.

 

[👩🎓]

Yeah that must be the case, thank you! At least knowing this will mean I'll shift my behind into gear and send it off (ie stop faffing with the details) !

I'm sure your VI was not anything like as average/poor as you thought - I (and a lot of people) finish application stages feeling I could have done better so that's a totally normal thing to worry about. Best way forward is to try to keep it off your mind as there's nothing that can be done now anyway. Good luck with your application!

No worries, I never knew they were rolling so it was quite a surprise to get the test invite!

Thank you so much, I defo agree with you. I feel like everyone will always believe they could have done better.

Good luck with your application too! Happy to provide insight into the VI when you receive the invite.

 

[Chris Brown]

I used all 1,000 words lol. Thanks for the tips on this.

That’s actually impressive tbh. I was struggling to get past 800 words lmao. 😂

I think my split was around 125 for why commercial law, 375 for why White & Case and then 250 for why me (750 words in total). 🥲

The remaining 50-75 words were for short introductory and concluding sentences e.g., dear early careers team, my name is (X) and I studied LLB Law at (Y). I am writing to express my interest in (Z).

Not sure if this is the best way to start a cover letter but it seemed okay for me. I guess the main thing is to keep it concise but still give enough detail and analysis for each point. 🥲​

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

afaik, bakers is the only firm that doesnt mandate non law grads to undertake the pgdl (it just has some law foundation thing which takes 1-2 months before the actual sqe prep). Also, its sqe prep can be done 100% remotely, without being physically present in the UK. does anyone know of similar firms? @Amma Usman @Andrei Radu thanks

Hiya @futuretraineesolicitor

You’re absolutely right. Baker McKenzie doesn’t require non-law grads to complete the PGDL and instead offers a shorter Law Foundation Course before SQE prep. This is because they use BARBRI as their SQE provider, which delivers courses entirely online. I have a few friends who are currently set to join the firm and have had mixed feelings about this particular approach to preparing for the SQE. While Baker McKenzie stands out for this approach, other firms also partner with BARBRI and allow their trainees to complete their SQE prep remotely. Some of these firms include Fried Frank and Vinson & Elkins (although this might have changed since my last application cycle).

It's also worth noting that other providers like BPP and ULaw also offer remote SQE courses. However, firms that partner with these last two providers generally prefer their trainees to attend in-person. If remote study is a key factor for you, it’s worth double-checking firm policies and whether they provide flexibility.

You can also find more detailed information at this site, which tries to set out which course providers firms are partnered with and how much financial support they will offer to their future trainees. Hope this helps!

 

[A worried graduate]

Hill Dickinson PFO
I've got US firms in the mix. I've attended AC's for magic and silver circle firms...but I really wanted HD or WFW...
PFO for both...I'm gutted 😭

Interesting indeed

Did you mention both the TC seat and route in that question as I think they wanted both in that one question

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

Hiya @futuretraineesolicitor

You’re absolutely right. Baker McKenzie doesn’t require non-law grads to complete the PGDL and instead offers a shorter Law Foundation Course before SQE prep. This is because they use BARBRI as their SQE provider, which delivers courses entirely online. I have a few friends who are currently set to join the firm and have had mixed feelings about this particular approach to preparing for the SQE. While Baker McKenzie stands out for this approach, other firms also partner with BARBRI and allow their trainees to complete their SQE prep remotely. Some of these firms include Fried Frank and Vinson & Elkins (although this might have changed since my last application cycle).

It's also worth noting that other providers like BPP and ULaw also offer remote SQE courses. However, firms that partner with these last two providers generally prefer their trainees to attend in-person. If remote study is a key factor for you, it’s worth double-checking firm policies and whether they provide flexibility.

You can also find more detailed information at this site, which tries to set out which course providers firms are partnered with and how much financial support they will offer to their future trainees. Hope this helps!

thanks for going into this level of detail ram.

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

I want to ask, for TCs stationed in the middle east like CMS Dubai, do we have to be an Arab national to apply? Do they people who are not a middle-east national. I can read and write in arabic, though I am not a national, if that helps.

Hiya @MaryAra299

@Jessica Booker might have more to say here, but I don't think your nationality should be a barrier to applying for a Middle East-based training contract. I've met associates and trainees from firms in the Middle East and have noticed they very often recruit a diverse range of candidates. From what I’ve seen with other applicants, I think the key factors tend to be a strong academic record, fluency in Arabic (both written and spoken), and a demonstrated connection to the region. The only other thing I'd say is that firms often look for candidates who can show a long-term commitment to practising in the Middle East, just because they invest significant resources in training and developing lawyers who will stay in the region.

I think your ability to read and write Arabic will definitely work in your favour, as language skills are a major asset in the market. If you also have experience living, studying, or working in the Middle East (or can demonstrate a strong understanding of the region’s legal and business environment) that could further strengthen your application. If applications are still open, I’d definitely encourage you to apply. Best of luck with the process!