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What chance do I have of getting a training contract with a city firm

I have a first class honours at a non russell group university. I self funded my LPC and have received a distinction.
i have 2 years paralegal experience.

However i never completed my A levels or GCSE's at school (which i left 10 years ago).
I have applied to over 100 law firms and not received a single interview offer.

Should i persevere or am i doomed without the school grades?
On a side note..as i have never done the A levels, should i take them now as it would not technically be a resit.

Opinions welcome
Thanks

Reply 1

lawtelathon

Original post by J-SP

I don't think getting the A-levels now will help to be honest.

Are you just sending off speculative applications or are you speaking to the firms in question before applying?

Posted from TSR Mobile

Hi,

Thanks for your reply.

I have no history with the law firms as some of the are on the other side of the country. I am just applying via their online webforms.

Should i contact them beforehand?

Reply 2

ath_

Original post by lawtelathon

Visit careers fairs and meet the recruiters from City firms (not the trainees who have been wheeled out, but the actually HR staff), Explain your situation and get them to look our for your application. That will give you a massive advantage.

Your profile does not, in my view, really fit with a City law firm. Have you considered a good quality national or local law firm instead?

Plus, with the number of applications you have made I would look again at your cover letter or your answers to the questions on the application forms - get some professional input there and see if you're making obvious mistakes.

Good luck!

Reply 3

dlaiden

Original post by lawtelathon

Don't know if this will help you at all, but if you've heard of Aspiring Solicitors it may be a good shout to contact this trainee - Alain Dodds. Has a similar background to you in terms of lack of A levels + GCSEs and he secured a TC at CC so he may be able to help you. I've met him before outside Aspiring Solicitors and he's lovely so as long he's still replying to messages I'm sure he'd be happy to be contacted.

Reply 4

tabshiftspace

Original post by lawtelathon

I would go get a training contract elsewhere, qualify in a specialism if you can, then move over to a city firm in that specialist department as a PQE+1 or 2

Reply 5

username1559803

Original post by lawtelathon

Hi, my opinion would be to get sole business experience. There are many individuals who attend University st later stages and secure a TC at a city firm. There's one particular story that I find especially inspiring- I'll send it tomorrow if I remember.
In a city firm everything is relevant, even retail experience so make sure you include all your past work. If that doesn't work out, try highstreet firms. Don't give up.

Posted from TSR Mobile

What chance do I have of getting a training contract with a city firm

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