Category: Advice

A former City partner’s guide to navigating the training contract application process
With interview season just around the corner, former NRF lawyer Nick Clayson offers up his top tips and advice to those seeking to enter the profession

‘What should I wear for my summer vac scheme?’
I’ve heard dress codes are more relaxed now but is that actually true?

Why I chose to do my training contract in-house
Newly qualified legal counsel Laiana Alleyne explains why City law isn't the be-all and end-all

How to nail a summer vac scheme
Three future trainees give their top tips

US firm trainee: ‘Should I pay off my student loan in one go?’
'Qualification is by no means a given'

Career-changing doctor: ‘Can I negotiate my training contract salary?’
I have years of experience and transferable skills

‘How enforceable are law firm claw back clauses on LPC/SQE funding?’
I've been told I will need to repay it if I don't stay on post-qualification

‘Should I say I’m an incoming vac schemer on LinkedIn?’
It's been tough to get onto these schemes, but after seeing criticism online, now I'm not so sure

Open thread: What UK firms are REALLY paying associates beyond NQ level
Share your insider salary info below the line

‘I left law to launch a theatre company and start a family — but now I’ve returned a more well-rounded lawyer’
Cardiff solicitor Hannah Williams reflects on the benefits of a career break

How I secured a magic circle training contract as a neurodivergent graduate
Six months ago Amelia Platton thought she wouldn't make it as a solicitor. Now, during Neurodiversity Celebration Week, she shares with readers her four tips to TC success

‘Can I jump from a fairly standard regional firm to a high ranking City one?’
Rookie requires readers' help

‘Can I spend the next year unemployed now I’ve secured a training contract?’
One future trainee worries the gap on her CV could be 'detrimental career-wise'

‘I’m a non-law student totally confused by the new SQE’
I want to be a solicitor but I'm unsure what my options are

Legal Cheek’s training contract and study advice video series
We've shared ours and now we want YOU to feature your advice on Instagram

‘How do I put up with my noisy law firm colleagues?’
I'm struggling to focus now I'm back in the office

‘I’ve accepted a TC with a firm which doesn’t cover the area I want to practise’
I hope to specialise in aviation law

How I passed the first SQE
Aspiring solicitor Geoffrey Janes scored top marks for SQE1 and shares six practical tips to help you do the same

How aspiring lawyers can make the most of Instagram
Top tips courtesy of social media savvy solicitor Yasmin Khan-Gunns

Should City lawyers subsidise their less high-earning boyfriends and girlfriends?
A question facing lots of rookie solicitors as they move in with their other halves, whose salaries are often much lower