How do I apply?

Applications for the 2008 vacation schemes have now closed. Applications for winter 2008 and spring and summer 2009 will open on 1 October.

What is the recruitment process?

For a vacation scheme there is a short case study exercise (one hour) and an interview with two partners (one hour) followed by a tour with a trainee.

When will I hear if I have been successful?

Within 7 - 10 working days.

Who is eligible to apply for a place on the vacation schemes?

Penultimate year law students and final year non-law students who are considering a career as a commercial lawyer. We do also consider both strong law and non-law students who have already graduated.

We will also consider applications from law and language students who are in their second year and going abroad for their third year.

The purpose of the scheme is to give an insight into the workings and culture of a commercial law firm.

Please note our Christmas scheme is restricted to final year non-law students only.

When is the deadline for vacation scheme applications?

Our deadline for Christmas is 15 November 2007.
For Spring and Summer placements our deadline is 31 January 2008, however we would advise students to apply before Christmas.

How many places are there on the vacation schemes?

• 130 places in total on our vacation schemes 2007/2008
• 25 places on our Christmas scheme (non-law only)
• 25 places on our Easter scheme
• 25-30 places on each of our three two-week summer schemes

When are the vacation schemes taking place?

• Winter: 3-14 December 2007 (non-law students only)
• Spring: 31 March - 11 April 2008
• Summer (1): 16-27 June 2008
• Summer (2): 7-18 July 2008
• Summer (3): 28 July -8 August 2008

Dates may be subject to change

Is it worth my applying for a training contract if I haven't been on a vacation scheme with the firm?

Yes, definitely. We recognise that we are unable to offer vacation scheme places to as many students as we would like and welcome applications from other students. For further details see Training Contract application FAQs

What shall I do if my studies were affected by the 2006 industrial action at my university?

We are aware of the industrial action that took place at many universities. If you have been affected by this, please advise us in the notes section of the application form so that we can take this in to account when reviewing your application. Should you wish to discuss this personally with us, please call us on the Graduate Recruitment hotline: 020 7374 8000.