Legal training contract applications: Choosing your direction
The harsh reality is that competition for training contracts is very tough. Research suggests that there are around 2,000 candidates competing for an average of just 85 places.
Don’t give up, though. If you work hard, do your research and prepare there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have as good a chance as anyone else of getting one of those training contract places.
If you haven’t already, now is a good time to think long and hard about your law career plans. Consider whether you’re better suited to a role in a small, family legal practice or a fast-paced global city firm. Both have their pros and cons. Having done work experience will help you figure out what’s best for you.
Don’t feel that you have to want to work in a swanky city office. It isn’t for everyone and it isn’t a negative reflection on your levels of ambition or skill.
Ask yourself questions such as:
- Where do I want to live?
- Am I willing to move?
- What do I enjoy on a day-to-day basis?
- What do I know that I don’t enjoy?
- What have I learned through placements?
- Could I see myself working abroad?
- Do I want to handle billion-dollar contracts?
Once you work out more clearly where you want to be with your career as a lawyer you’ll be able to search for training contracts more effectively and tailor each application properly.
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