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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

legallady123

Star Member
Mar 30, 2021
47
63
Hi everyone, I have seen a couple people mention paralegal roles they have been in/current are in and was wondering what a paralegal interview would look like in terms of format and question-types.
I just graduated and I am scared they will ask why I want to be a paralegal (when in reality it is for the work experience whilst I wait to successfully get a TC).
Any insights will be greatly appreciated thank you!
I worked as a paralegal for one year after graduating and my interview questions were standard competency ones (time-management, successfully prioritising tasks, teamwork, etc) and then some which were more specific to the organisation. I think most firms will understand (especially if you have come from a law degree like I did) that the goal is ultimately to qualify and gain a traineeship somewhere. Many of the paralegals I worked alongside were in the same position. Personally I was not asked about this at interview.


I really enjoyed being a paralegal and feel like it prepared me well / gave me extra confidence for the VS I did. I think it’s good to not just view it as a means to an end but to really make the most of the experience and practical skills you will learn. The firm I have a TC offer at also gave many incoming trainees from my intake paralegal roles for the year between receiving the offer and starting because it makes the transition easier. This isn’t where I worked though.

I can’t speak for every firm but that was my experience :)
 

legalxp2

Star Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Jan 4, 2024
41
31
I worked as a paralegal for one year after graduating and my interview questions were standard competency ones (time-management, successfully prioritising tasks, teamwork, etc) and then some which were more specific to the organisation. I think most firms will understand (especially if you have come from a law degree like I did) that the goal is ultimately to qualify and gain a traineeship somewhere. Many of the paralegals I worked alongside were in the same position. Personally I was not asked about this at interview.


I really enjoyed being a paralegal and feel like it prepared me well / gave me extra confidence for the VS I did. I think it’s good to not just view it as a means to an end but to really make the most of the experience and practical skills you will learn. The firm I have a TC offer at also gave many incoming trainees from my intake paralegal roles for the year between receiving the offer and starting because it makes the transition easier. This isn’t where I worked though.

I can’t speak for every firm but that was my experience :)
thank you so much!!!
 

VMS

Legendary Member
Oct 16, 2023
195
480
it is sadly :(

Ffs. I was good at that test on my first cycle, but this cycle I’ve been not doing as well. Looks like I’ll need to bite the bullet and buy the JobTestPrep kit or something.

Does anyone else have any WG prep websites they use? I’ve already used the Clifford Chance free test quite a few times. I’m scoring 80%+ in those but was only in the 32nd percentile when I did the Linklaters test.
 

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