TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[3000to1shoteverytime]

Has anyone gotten past the application stage for a direct TC despite having minimal legal experience/ career experience more generally?

Yes

 

[RS Sanjanaa]

does anybody know when WBD and BCLP might get back on application for direct tc?

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

For Ashurst's "Tell us about your hobbies and interests.", can I give just one hobby/interest? @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman , would appreciate your insights

 

[Amma Usman]

For Ashurst's "Tell us about your hobbies and interests.", can I give just one hobby/interest? @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman , would appreciate your insights

I think it depends on the word count. If it’s around 50-75 words, focusing on one hobby or interest makes sense, as it gives you enough space to explain why it interests you, how you’ve developed it, and any skills you’ve gained from it. However, if you have the flexibility, I’d recommend referencing at least 2-3 hobbies or interests. From a law firm’s perspective, this question is designed to show the breadth of your personality and demonstrate that you’re well-rounded. Highlighting a range of interests can subtly reflect transferable skills like teamwork, resilience, or commitment, and helps present you as someone who can build relationships easily…which is a key part of the role.

 

[x_lauren112]

Have the W&C DTC applications shut early? swear I saw this somewhere but not sure

 

[Jessica Booker]

For Ashurst's "Tell us about your hobbies and interests.", can I give just one hobby/interest? @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman , would appreciate your insights

I’d generally recommend talking broadly about your hobbies and interests rather than just focusing on one.

 

[User5678]

does anybody know when WBD and BCLP might get back on application for direct tc?

WBD is making me cry atp, they said week commencing 3 march and march is almost over😭

 

[User5678]

Have the W&C DTC applications shut early? swear I saw this somewhere but not sure

Nope, I’ve just checked allhires, seem to be open till 13/07

 

[spamelinazoid]

1.5 months after the application deadline and radio silence from HL (except for a few rejections). Anyone heard of anyone getting an AC invite?

 

[applicant#...]

1.5 months after the application deadline and radio silence from HL (except for a few rejections). Anyone heard of anyone getting an AC invite?

Just received a pfo from Hogan 😅 But yeah the wait is never fun

 

[EG3]

Anyone had their DACB AC yet? Or someone who has done one before. First AC so any tips for preparation/on the day would be great

 

[Andrei Radu]

Has anyone gotten past the application stage for a direct TC despite having minimal legal experience/ career experience more generally?

I know someone who has gotten a TC from a mid-market UK firm and their only legal work experience was an informal internship at a not very well known law firm in a foreign country (which in practice was more of a shadowing experience), while the only non-legal work experience consisted of summer jobs in the hospitality sector. Also, their grades were in the low 2.1 region. Because of this they considered their direct TC applications to be quite speculative, but, to their own surprise, it ended up working out. As such, I think for many firms it is definitely worth a shot even if you do not have the strongest CV work experience-wise.

 

[Wannabe_Lawyer]

McGuireWoods pfo...I didn't apply to them.

"Please be assured that your application was given full consideration." I am doubtful of how much consideration was given to candidates who actually applied.

 

[Legallywhatever]

I know someone who has gotten a TC from a mid-market UK firm and their only legal work experience was an informal internship at a not very well known law firm in a foreign country (which in practice was more of a shadowing experience), while the only non-legal work experience consisted of summer jobs in the hospitality sector. Also, their grades were in the low 2.1 region. Because of this they considered their direct TC applications to be quite speculative, but, to their own surprise, it ended up working out. As such, I think for many firms it is definitely worth a shot even if you do not have the strongest CV work experience-wise.

Wow, that is motivation alright!

Thank you for the response!!

 

[B101]

Any tips for BCLP’s SJT?

 

[Tintin06]

A rEcRuItEr LoOkEd At YoUr PrOfILe

Thank you for that news, LinkedIn…

 

[berocca567]

Does anyone know if the mayer brown test includes recording videos? or is it just written questions. I need to know where to take it

 

[elsx]

Does anyone know if the mayer brown test includes recording videos? or is it just written questions. I need to know where to take it

Hi, If it's the first one it does not have any VI questions.

 

[rjay]

Slaughter and May interview for non law route, any tips will be very much appreciated. I'm also an international graduate and my interview will be virtual, i don't know if that deters my chances.

 

[Tintin06]

Slaughter and May interview for non law route, any tips will be very much appreciated. I'm also an international graduate and my interview will be virtual, i don't know if that deters my chances.

Make sure you can debate well. Watching WUDC finals may help you. Really know your CV inside out. Anticipate questions about your CV accordingly.