Topgrad is currently recruiting talented graduates for a prestigious Magic Circle law firm. During their ten-week summer scheme, participants will share an office with an associate in one of the legal groups. The associate will involve participants as much as possible in their work. Additionally, a trainee solicitor will be assigned to each participant to help them settle in and be available throughout their stay to answer any questions and assist with any tasks they may be given.
In addition to engaging in legal work and conducting hands-on legal research, participants will take part in training, workshops, and interactive case studies. There will also be social activities arranged to provide opportunities to talk with partners, associates, and trainees outside the office.
Participants in the summer scheme will be offered the opportunity to interview for a training contract. This interview will take place in the third week of the scheme.
SALARY
Participants will be paid £500 per week to cover expenses during the scheme. The firm is committed to ensuring the scheme is accessible to everyone, so additional financial support is available for those who require it, including funds in advance if needed to book accommodation and/or travel for the scheme.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, complete this online application, which can be accessed through the google form. Applicants will need to provide personal details, attach a cover letter and CV.
Every application received is reviewed by the Trainee Recruitment Team, with no automatic filtering of applications.
Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual interview. Interviews will take place over a six-week period and will be conducted virtually by a partner and an associate. The interview will last approximately 45 minutes and will involve a discussion about the candidate's CV and a short current affairs article, which will be emailed 15 minutes before the interview. Candidates can take notes during this time and refer to both the article and their notes during the interview.
During the interview, partners will assess the candidate's ability to assimilate information quickly, identify relevant issues, and articulate and defend their point of view. Candidates will be expected to summarise the main points of the article, form an opinion on the subject matter, and engage in a sensible debate on the issues raised. This is not a comprehension test or a test to discover political leanings or beliefs.
Points to consider when reading the article:
- Can you summarise the key issues raised in the article?
- What are the main themes, arguments, and conclusion (if any)?
- Do you agree or disagree with the arguments put forth and the position taken in the article, and why?
- What may be the counterarguments to your position?
- Are the arguments provided in the article coherent and logical?
- Are there relevant issues not touched on or developed in the article?
Although the discussion will centre around the subject and themes of the article, interviewers may pursue any line of discussion. Candidates should expect to be presented with questions they have not considered before, requiring them to think on their feet.
Candidate Criteria Across All Work Experience Opportunities:
- A Sharp Intellect: Candidates must demonstrate strong intellectual abilities, typically evidenced by good A-level results (or equivalent) and a good 2:1 in their degree. First-year students may apply even if they do not yet have university grades to include in their application.
- Drive and an Interest in Commercial Law: Candidates should show an interest in a career in commercial law, an understanding of the firm's work, and motivation and enthusiasm to learn more about working at the firm. Legal work experience is not required, but candidates should demonstrate their interest through activities such as open days, virtual internships, or attending law firm events/university events.
- Commercial Awareness: Candidates need to have an interest in the commercial world and understand how business works.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Good verbal and written communication skills are essential, and the ability to work successfully in teams is highly valued due to the firm's collaborative culture.
- The Ability to Show Grit Under Pressure: The firm's multi-specialist approach means trainees work on a full range of transactions, which can be demanding. Candidates must demonstrate resilience and the ability to remain focused under pressure.
- Independent Thought: The firm values diversity and individuality, so candidates should be able to articulate and defend their points of view. A range of interests outside of a career in law is also encouraged to show how candidates have developed relevant qualities and skills.
ACCESSIBILITY
The firm is committed to ensuring that recruitment processes are barrier-free and as inclusive as possible to everyone. This includes making adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term health condition.
