Freshfields

Freshfields is a global commercial law firm advising businesses on substantial transactions, disputes and regulatory challenges. Its London practice combines corporate and finance work with competition, investigations, litigation, employment, tax and other specialist advice.

International coordination is a recurring feature. A major acquisition may require teams to negotiate transaction documents, secure regulatory approvals and address employment or tax issues across several countries. The firm also represents clients in complex disputes involving multiple parties and jurisdictions.

For prospective trainees, a distinctive feature is the flexibility of its Trainee Associate Programme. Three-month rotations allow trainees to explore more practice areas before qualification, with the option to remain in a team for longer. This offers scope to compare transactional, advisory and contentious work while developing an understanding of how different departments contribute to a client’s objectives.

The two-year programme uses eight three-month rotations, with flexibility to extend individual seats. The firm aims to offer every trainee a client or international secondment during the final six months.

Future trainees undertake SQE preparation through the City Consortium Solicitor Training Programme. Non-law graduates complete the PGDL beforehand. Freshfields pays course fees and provides maintenance grants of £12,500 for the PGDL and £20,000 for the consortium programme. Previously completed courses may qualify for discretionary tuition reimbursement.

The summer vacation schemes each last three weeks and provide experience within a practice area, alongside opportunities to meet lawyers and learn about the firm. Candidates can also apply directly for the Trainee Associate Programme without completing a vacation scheme.