Hi, is anyone in my position or can you direct me to the best option? I was a covid student so my A-level grades were cancelled so when I got BCC I was just happy with not sitting the exam not realising the impact it could make in the future. Then I went to uni to do LLB Law and really struggled with family issues in 2nd year and landed with a 57% 2:2. I got a first-class in my dissertation and I would really love to aspire to a career as a corporate solicitor. Any tips or advice on what I can do to stand out in applications as they are opening, which firms I should consider applying and anyone in a similar position?
If being a solicitor in a commercial/corporate law firm is your ambition, then I have no doubt you will accomplish this. University grades are certainly important but they are not a golden bullet. It is a big world, London is a big city, and there are opportunities afar when good candidates slip through the cracks.
As a first step, I would make a list of those firms that do not have A Level requirements and apply to those. Off the top of my head, I know Squire Patton Boggs are an insanely impressive firm that do not require A Levels. A friend of mine obtained a vacation scheme with A Level grades worse than yours. He did not receive the TC offer but was told to reapply this year. There will also be
BCLP, DWF and others.
Secondly, you should sit down (over the course of a few sessions if it is difficult) and detail what impacted your A Level grades and university grades using Microsoft Word. Law firms will accept a detailed letter if the space that explains your extenuating circumstances needs more space.
Lastly, I advise if this is something you are serious about pursuing long-term to play the long game. I am a career changer and finished the GDL/LPC in 2020. I have been through a few cycles now, making it to the last stage with the offer being elusive. I will pick myself up, gain more experience, and come back. Paralegal roles and applying to firms as an internal candidate are also possibilities. Alternatively, a contact of mine trained via Accutrainee and is now a CMS lawyer. There is no reason to conclude the worst from your circumstances but keep your head up and remain persistent. Best of luck!
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