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: who we're looking for
WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Our trainees are the future partners of our firm, so naturally we have extremely high standards when it comes to selecting the intake for the year. We look for 22-24 trainees every year, which is a relatively small number for the size of the firm. A law degree isn't essential - our strength in the IP and hi-tech industries and internationally means we're just as keen to hear from talented Trainee Solicitors in disciplines such as sciences and languages . Beyond that, we've put together a (non-exhaustive) list of the kind of skills or qualities we're after.
ACADEMIC ABILITY
We look for a minimum of ABB at A level and a 2:1 in any degree discipline.
COMMERCIAL AWARENESS
The best degree in the world isn't much use if you don't know how to apply it in the real world. You'll need a keen interest in and awareness of how business works plus plenty of common sense.
COMMUNICATION AND TEAM SKILLS
These are vital as you'll usually be working as part of a team. You'll need to be able to explain complex issues clearly and to advise and negotiate with others in order to deliver the best service.
LATERAL THINKING
Nothing in the law is set in stone. Precedents are routinely overturned so you'll need to be able to react and adapt quickly if the law is to be your tool rather than your straightjacket.
FOCUS AND COMMITMENT
Like any rewarding career, law can be very hard work. Perseverance, enthusiasm, resilience and motivation will be vital as you're bound to run into thorny legal issues that defy all the standard answers.
ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT
This is a business like any other so a little entrepreneurial spirit and salesmanship can help add real value to our client relationships and to our bottom line.
PERSONALITY
We're going to be working together, so we look for people with a spark about them who'll be able to contribute to our open culture.
EVIDENCE YOU'VE DONE YOUR HOMEWORK
Whether you've done a law degree or not, we want to know that you're committed to a long-term career in the law and at Taylor Wessing in particular. So make sure you've done your homework.