TSR Wiki > Careers > Graduate Employers Guides > DLA Piper
Employer Information
- Application deadline: 31st January for Vacation Schemes, 31st July for Training Contracts (online applications only)
- Starting salaries: £26,000 regions, £36,000 London
- Regions: Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield
- Industries:
- Website: www.dlapiper.com
- Email: graduate.recruitment@dlapiper.com
- Telephone: 020 7796 6677
- Address:
DLA Piper LLP
Victoria Square House
Victoria Square
Birmingham
B2 4DL
What is DLA Piper?
What roles are available at DLA Piper?
Application process for DLA Piper.
Entry requirements and type of person suited for DLA Piper.
Future prospects and training at DLA Piper.
Other comments about DLA Piper.
Experiences
If you have applied to DLA Piper, we would like you to hear from you. Please use the following form to detail your experiences of application, to aid those interested in following a similar career path.
Position applied for: Vacation Scheme
Year of Application: 2009
Region: Leeds
Educational Background: 13 GCSE's, 3 As at A Level, overall 2.1 in 1st and second year studying Law at a top 20 University
What were your experiences of the application process?
The application form was relatively straightforward and easy to fill in. Once I had completed the form I received a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of my application. After the application deadline (31st Jan) had passed, I received an email inviting me to attend an interview at the firm's Leeds office. The interview was fairly laid back in comparison to other interviews I have attended, and lasted approximately 30 mins. The attendees were one member of Graduate Recruitment, and one Partner from the firm. Following attendance at this interview, I was offered a vacation scheme with the firm approximately 2 weeks later, by post.
What is it like working for DLA Piper?
During my 2 weeks with the firm I was very impressed. From my research, I had come across lots of negative press about DLA and did not know what to expect. Upon arriving at the firm on my first day, I realised that the legal press and the realities of working for a firm are two completely different things. I really enjoyed my time at DLA, especially the very friendly staff; at all levels. There does not seem to be any real hierarchy, except obviously in situations requiring delegation of work. The overwhelming majority of employees seemed to enjoy their job and respect the firm. The tasks I completed during my placement gave me a much better insight into the work of the firm, and I felt as if I was actually contributing towards fee earning and client work.
How has it compared to your expectations? As DLA is such a massive global firm, I had expected to be one of many vacation scheme students and not to have staff take the time to get to know me. This was not the case at all. The staff are all very open, approachable and friendly and there is lots of cross-departmental socialising. Trainees especially seem to be a very close, tight knit group. I felt part of the team already, even after only being in the firm for 2 weeks, and did miss everyone I had met when I left after my placement.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time? I am still going through the process of applying for training contracts; I have made all my applications for this season and have got a few interviews scheduled. Hopefully I will have some luck and be able to work for DLA, or another top regional player, as a trainee solicitor.
Finally, any advice you would give to potential applicants? Make sure you check, check and check your application! At interview, try and think of any possible questions that you may be asked and prepare suitable answers. Remember that your interviewers are people too; they're not that scary! Stay calm and be yourself; this applies to your time on the scheme too. The firm is looking for individuals who fit in with the culture and ethos of the firm, not clones who have no personality! Have fun!
Position applied for:
Year of Application:
Region:
Educational Background:
What were your experiences of the application process?
What is it like working for DLA Piper?
How has it compared to your expectations?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
Finally, any advice you would give to potential applicants?
