Intern Review

I had the best time at my DLA Piper Vac scheme. The work was so diverse, I never did the same thing twice. It is three weeks of fast pace learning about the culture of the firm, and what life is like as a practicing commercial lawyer in the worlds biggest global business law firm.

The people who work for DLA Piper were consistently nice, whether in the London office or the regional one in which I was placed. The trainees are so welcoming and help you so much. All of the partners were so approachable, the culture support really stood out to me. Staff were sociable and put in a lot of effort to go for coffee and lunch with me to answer my questions and to give me feedback on my work.

I was given clear instructions for everything I did, and was encouraged to ask as many questions as I needed to ask. The support was amazing, everyone on the team wants you to do well, and is very encouraging of everything you are doing, whilst giving you advice and pointers on how to approach your tasks.

We were given anything from research to drafting dispositions and offers, to taking minutes during client calls. The practical skills I have gained will help me as I go on to study my diploma. The work refreshed my memory of modules I sat before honours, and how to put my learning into practice, whilst considering client care and the core values of the firm.

DLA Pipers graduate recruitment a total reflection of the firm in general. The team is really exceptional. They were constantly updating you so you knew exactly what was happening. The program they put together was well organised and structured in way that was intellectually stimulating but also really fun. We always knew where we were going, at what time, and what we were doing.

The general atmosphere was fun and supportive. They give you so many opportunities to bond with your fellow interns that you will become friends quite quickly. the atmosphere in the firm is calm and supportive. The staff are confident and passionate about DLA Piper's core values. I felt challenged in my work, but equally supported.

I felt very invested in. They know that interns are the future of the firm, and this really shows. We had workshops on mental health and well being, resilience and how to present a pitch. The workshops are designed to boost your confidence for the work that lies a head of you, whether that be in the internship or in your career. The workshops set a good foundation and had a real personal touch.

During the first week of training in London with all the interns from accross the country, you are given the opportunity to learn about the firm as a whole; what it stands for, its history, its work, its locations. By talking to employees at many of the social events that are arranged, you gain an understanding of why they want to work at DLA Piper and what their experience has been. You will then have your own experience when you go to the regional office of your choice and do work for fee earners.

It is very clear from the beginning how important the companies values are. I found the values to be reflected in the staff, the atmosphere and the importance of charity work and pro bono in the firm. DLA Piper is known for its expertise, global reach adn also its humanity.

After my internship, any reservations I had about becoming a commercial lawyer dissolved. I knew that I could see myself working at DLA Piper full time in the future. Their amazing clients along with the prestige and variety of work that they do means that work will always be exciting and rewarding.

We were paid £300 a week for our three week internship. On top of this, we didn't have to pay for any meals in London. Breakfast and lunch were provided for you in the office, and we were given a £20 a night dinner allowance. In the regional office, breakfast and lunch was also provided. The food in the office is amazing.

There are so many opportunities to network over the three weeks of your internship. The staff are very keen to meet for coffee and discuss their practice area/ career with you. Graduate recruitment organised great events with the purpose of networking, such as partner dinners and drinks, and networking lunches with the trainees.

The social were fantastic. There were so many opportunities to meet partners and speak to them about their time at DLA and pick their brains a bit! Aas for social opportunities, the trainees were amazing at getting us all together after work to get dinner or play sport. It is a very social firm, everyone is very fun and approachable.

Yes! DLA Piper has a running club, a touch rugby team and a cricket team. You can also get involved in their initiatives such as the Leadership Alliance for Women, and IRIS, their initiative for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. During our time at the firm, the staff were taking part in an overnight cycle around the city for women's cancer charities.

I would do this insight again if I could. I had so much fun and it went by so fast. I learnt so much about putting my degree into practice. It broke down any reservations I had about working for a big commercial firm. I met so many fantastic people and received so much advice. I feel very set up for the future.