Virtual Insight Programme Review

I was given an insight into the general characteristics of law firms and into DLA Piper's specific practice groups. Each day contained around three main sessions covering career motivation, pro bono, diversity and inclusion, application skills, and business strategy and strengths. Also included one trainee spotlight session per day enabling one trainee to discuss their backstory and current work in detail.

I feel more motivated to pursue a career in commercial law and better understand the industry. I was also able to carry out some mock trainee tasks through Forage, from due diligence to drafting client emails, which improved my commercial awareness and potential to succeed as a trainee solicitor at DLA Piper.

The potential roles available at DLA Piper sold themselves. On understanding the business, I got the impression of a cross-border legal career working with a broad range of quality clients in offices which are equally strong globally. The firm did not help me understand this in a forced way, but rather through facts and honest insights from its managing staff.

Graduate recruitment seemed to genuinely know most of the trainees and even senior lawyers, which was certainly a good indication of the firm's friendliness. I did not get the impression of an overly aggressive law firm, but DLA Piper still has a clear growth strategy and a determination to get where it wants to be. The 'upstart' sense of the firm suggested less bureaucracy than at more traditional, older firms.

Although I would have liked more chances to interact with the firm's representatives, for example by networking in a breakout room, I thoroughly enjoyed the insight. It met my expectations to learn more about the firm and the profession more generally, and I would definitely like to return for a further placement. This is testament to the interesting and varied insights given by the speakers in each session.

Yes

Ensure that you exhaustively research the firm, particularly for vacation scheme and training contract applications. It definitely helps to have a first-hand insight so do meet the firm at networking events etc if you can. That way, you can better see how your values fit with the firm and emphasise why you are a good match accordingly. You could emphasise the firm's global network, Corporate strength, inclusive culture, and pro bono commitments.