For law graduates, getting your first job in the legal sector can be challenging in the beginning. That said, securing a placement at one of London’s many legal firms is one of the greatest boosts you can give your career. It’s a vital stepping stone for any aspiring legal expert, whether you want to work in the field of corporate law, family law, employment law or indeed any other area.

Law is, however, a competitive field and not every firm will necessarily be the right fit. Whether you’re in your second year of university, are considering a placement year, or are approaching your graduation, these practical tips will help you navigate the process of landing that valuable position to garner real-world experience, insights, and tools to help you succeed in this space.

Make a Plan and Start Early On

Many law students and undergraduates begin the search for a fulfilling law placement well before their end-of-year exams. Simultaneously, many law firms extend the opportunity to apply for law placements up to a year in advance of a possible full job. Smaller firms may advertise placement schemes throughout the year.

The most successful students firm up a plan well in advance, researching firms, application deadlines, and opportunities that could serve them well as they prepare for a career in law.

Understand Your Legal Interests

The legal world encompasses a wealth of specific practice areas. It’s a good idea to identify the area(s) that genuinely interest you, which could include competitive areas like criminal justice and intellectual property law to more rewarding work like family and property law, including complex and challenging areas like probate, finance and lasting power of attorney (LPA), an expanding and developing area.

Some graduates may prefer to work for a high-street firm or as part of a legal team inside an organisation that operates in another field of interest, or even local government institutions. 

Craft a Standout CV and Cover Letter

Your placement application documents should be razor-sharp and meticulously crafted. Make sure to highlight relevant legal skills and experience and tailor each application to the specific firm and placement. For advice and tips, consider booking a consultation with a careers expert in the legal space to refine and improve your application.

Build Transferable and Practical Legal Skills

Hiring law firms value candidates who can make a valuable first impression, often using evidence of an applicant’s practical skills as a vital unit of measurement. Consider joining networking and legal-specific groups as part of your course, on LinkedIn or in your local area, that will help you build valuable experience to bring to the table. Networking is invaluable in the legal profession. Openly engage with industry discussions and build connections to grow your network.

Prepare for Different Assessments and Interviews

Getting a law job interview is a huge achievement, but the selection process may differ from placement to placement. Prepare for case study exercises, group assessments, common legal interview questions, structured real-world responses, and practical tests. Be ready to discuss your experience, strengths, areas for improvement, and how you can contribute to the firm.

Consider Alternative Placement Options

While traditional placement schemes are valuable, other experiences can also enhance your CV. The legal space offers options, such as roles in legal consulting, paralegal, academia, compliance, and internal counsel positions, which can be fulfilling. Remember your first law job doesn’t always determine your full career path. 

Showcase Your Intent and Ambition

Looking for jobs has become very digitally focused nowadays. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and other – legal industry-specific – job boards to find openings and engage with organisations. Engage with legal recruitment agencies for tailored job advertisements and connecting with employers. Ensure your social media channels present you in a positive light and don’t contradict your attitude in the working world.

Be Resilient and Learn from Feedback

Securing a law placement is competitive, and rejections are normal, especially for first-time applicants. Request feedback when applications are unsuccessful, reflect on your interview experience, identify improvement areas, and book follow-up appointments with career specialists to discuss your strategy.

Next Steps

The journey to securing your law placement doesn’t have to be long or difficult. With planning, effort, and support in place, you can carve a sustainable, achievable path to a long-term fulfilling and enriching career. 

If you are interested in a change of career or exploring different legal pathways, read some of our graduate stories and online resources for tips, inspiration and ideas for your next move. 

Visit the University of Westminster’s Careers and Employability Service if you’re keen to take that vital next step today.

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Thank you to Dakota for writing this blog!

Dakota Murphey is an established freelance writer who regularly contributes to a number of authoritative resources online. She specialises in eCommerce, Digital Business, Marketing, Public Relations, Human Resources, Company Growth and Cybersecurity.

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