TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[ysr567]

Does anyone know if it's correct that we can apply to Macfarlanes for a direct TC if we were rejected for a vacation scheme after the situational test. I saw a couple people say so but haven't found anywhere on their website that says this.

 

[A worried graduate]

Yh BCLP is quite good tbh. I did my placement year there from 2023 to 2024. Non reg from Northern Ireland and made it to the final stage for a tc. If your application is good and you’re interested in real estate you’ll be fine. Funny enough the interview is more strength based so barely any commercial awareness. That was what threw me off but it’s definitely worth a shot.

They are a nice firm but what can I talk about other than real estate as that’s not on my radar

 

[Chris Brown]

They are a nice firm but what can I talk about other than real estate as that’s not on my radar

I think BCLP is also pretty good at Competition Law, M&A, Banking & Finance, Insurance and Dispute Resolution. I wrote about Competition, M&A and Dispute Resolution in my application (alongside Real Estate).

It’s worthwhile looking at Chambers & Partners to see which practice areas BCLP is ranked for and what Band each practice is in. For example, Real Estate and Planning are both ranked Band 1.

To my understanding, this means that BCLP is considered one of the best city law firms for Real Estate and Planning work. I have copied the link to the Chambers & Partners rankings below:

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP

Discover where Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP are ranked in the UK legal rankings. Visit Chambers and Partners to learn more.

chambers.com

 

[A worried graduate]

I think BCLP is also pretty good at Competition Law, M&A, Banking & Finance, Insurance and Dispute Resolution. I wrote about Competition, M&A and Dispute Resolution in my application (alongside Real Estate).

It’s worthwhile looking at Chambers & Partners to see which practice areas BCLP is ranked for and what Band each practice is in. For example, Real Estate and Planning are both ranked Band 1.

To my understanding, this means that BCLP is considered one of the best city law firms for Real Estate and Planning work. I have copied the link to the Chambers & Partners rankings below:

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP

Discover where Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP are ranked in the UK legal rankings. Visit Chambers and Partners to learn more.

chambers.com

I didn't think about the planning aspect. While it isn't on my radar either, I do have a little bit of experience that could beef the form up.

 

[bjelostan]

has anyone had a direct TC interview with mayer brown?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Does anyone know if it's correct that we can apply to Macfarlanes for a direct TC if we were rejected for a vacation scheme after the situational test. I saw a couple people say so but haven't found anywhere on their website that says this.

Hiya @ysr567

Yes, I think you can do so. If you look through the eligibility section of their FAQ page, there's some helpful information about applying for the direct training contract in the same cycle. I'd definitely recommend applying, but would also encourage you to ensure that you've revised your application and tried to make some updates before doing so. Good luck!