Mayer Brown Graduate Recruitment PDF Robinson Katherine studied History at Oxford University and...

“Interview�us”

“�What’s�in��this�book?”

�“Why�should�I�work�for�you?”

In this section you can find out about Mayer Brown. We want you to know as much as possible to help you make the right choice for your career.

pages�05/22

�“Tell�me�about�work”

Work? In this section you can get under the skin of life at a firm like Mayer Brown. Find out what it’s like to be part of the team and get some handy tips from the experts.

pages�23/38

0102

�“How�do�I�apply?”

What’s involved in training to be a lawyer? How do I apply? What are the key dates I need to be aware of? These, and many more questions about the application process, are answered in this section.

pages�39/70

�“I’ll�make�some�notes”

Talking is very good but so is note taking. This section has a few spare pages for you to scribble on.

pages�71/74

�“I’ve�got�some�more�questions”

We think we’ve covered off the most obvious questions you’re likely to ask but if there is anything more you want to know this section has all the contact details you need to get in touch.

pages�79/80

Introduction

When I first joined the firm as a trainee there were only 40 partners, now we have almost 500. London was the only office and now there are over 20 offices in major cities across the globe. We have grown by attracting and promoting excellent people and by market-leading mergers in Europe, Asia and the Americas. We pride ourselves on our unmitigating focus on our clients. The clients we advise are without parallel. We work for the majority of the world’s biggest banks and many leading international corporations. We handle high-profile commercially-sensitive matters that are of crucial importance to our clients. We are looking for trainees who are bright, ambitious, willing to learn and people that want to make a difference as we grow our business. It really is a truly exciting time.

If you train and practise at Mayer Brown, you’ll be advising companies at the heart of the world economy: leading investment banks, insurance companies, property companies, major corporates, energy companies, hedge funds, and just about every major business in between.

Introduction

When I first joined the firm as a trainee there were only 40 partners, now we have almost 500. London was the only office and now there are over 20 offices in major cities across the globe. We have grown by attracting and promoting excellent people and by market-leading mergers in Europe, Asia and the Americas. We pride ourselves on our unmitigating focus on our clients. The clients we advise are without parallel. We work for the majority of the world’s biggest banks and many leading international corporations. We handle high-profile commercially-sensitive matters that are of crucial importance to our clients. We are looking for trainees who are bright, ambitious, willing to learn and people that want to make a difference as we grow our business. It really is a truly exciting time.

Contents 05 “Why should I work for you?”23 “Tell me about work”39 “How do I apply?”71 “I’ll make some notes”79 “I’ve got some more questions”

0304

“�When�I�look�at�the�opportunities�at�Mayer�Brown��I�truly�believe�they’re�limitless.�So�if�you�want�to��join�us�and�help�us�develop�further�I�would�be�very�pleased�to�welcome�you.”

Sean�ConnollyLondon�office�senior�partner

0304

Sean Connolly was the first generation of his family to go to university and trained at the firm. He now leads the London office and is a member of the Global Partnership Board as well as being a full-time partner in the Insurance & Reinsurance Group. He loves sports but sadly as a father of two has to settle for watching more than he plays.

“�Why�should�I�work�for�you?”

This section 07 Who are Mayer Brown?11 A trusted business advisor15 A fine balance19 A diverse commercial environment21 Our location

0506

What’s it really like to train as a lawyer? What do law firms really do and what’s life like inside one? Who are Mayer Brown, what sets us apart and who does well at our firm? We’re used to fielding questions from people with life after university on their minds and we want you to know as much as possible to help you make the right choice for your career.

Inside this section you will find some interesting details about our firm, along with the opportunity to meet just a few of the people who decided to train with us. If you like what you see, you will find more information about the kind of work that we do, who’s right for Mayer Brown and if we are the right firm for you.

Who�are�Mayer�Brown?

An international legal leaderIf we decide that we are right for each other, you will train at our London office on Bishopsgate, in the heart of the City. There you’ll work alongside 100 partners, around 200 lawyers, business services staff and a steady stream of visitors from Mayer Brown offices around the world. The London office of Mayer Brown plays a very important part in our global network offering the full range of legal services to an enviable high-profile list of blue chip and international clients. The office has established the firm’s reputation as one of the leading global law firms in London.

Mayer Brown is one of the world’s largest law firms with offices in major cities across the Americas, Europe and Asia. Our work has a genuinely global perspective and many of us find ourselves working alongside colleagues from other countries on global deals and cases.

Americas Charlotte Chicago Houston Los Angeles New York Palo Alto Rio de Janeiro (Tauil & Chequer office)* São Paulo (Tauil & Chequer office)* Washington

Asia Bangkok Beijing Guangzhou Hanoi Ho Chi Minh City Hong Kong Shanghai Singapore

EuropeBrussels Dusseldorf Frankfurt London Paris

* Mayer Brown operates in association with leading Brazilian law firm Tauil & Chequer Advogados. We also have an alliance with Spanish law firm Ramón y Cajal Abogados.

0708

Katherine Robinson Katherine studied History at Oxford University and after training with a US law firm, joined Mayer Brown as an associate in our Commercial Dispute Resolution group in 2010.

“�A�career�as�a�city�lawyer�takes�hard�work.�The�hours�can�be�long�but�it�is�rewarding�when�you�see�some�of�the�high-profile�cases�you�have�worked�on�making�the�news.�There�is�an�extensive�range�of�pro�bono�work�on�offer�in�the�firm�which�helps�you�keep�a�sense�of�perspective�and�provides�you�with�the�opportunity��to�get�involved�in�aspects�of�law�that�you�might�otherwise�not�experience.”

09 10

“�I�was�interested�in�becoming�a�lawyer�when�I�was�still�at�school�and�a�vacation�scheme�while�I�was��at�university�really�confirmed�my�choice.�Training��at�Kaplan�has�been�the�next�step�in�the�process.��We�benefit�from�a�really�personal�approach�from��our�tutors�and�partners,�who�are�very�good�at�helping�us�to�bridge�the�gap�between�the�LPC�and�life�as�a��trainee�solicitor�at�the�firm.”

OVERMATTER FROM ABOVE

09 10

Adeola Afolami Adeola started his training contract at Mayer Brown in September 2011. After a law degree at Durham University he spent a year on our bespoke LPC at Kaplan.

A�trusted�business�advisor

You can tell a lot about a firm by the company it keeps. We are a trusted adviser to some of the world’s biggest brand names, helping them to develop, grow and protect their businesses. From Corporate and Banking & Finance to Real Estate via Intellectual Property, Insurance & Reinsurance, Construction, Competition, Tax, Financial Services Regulatory & Enforcement, Pensions, Employment, Litigation & Dispute Resolution – our teams are hard at work helping the business world to keep on turning. Who can you expect to work for if you join us? Our client list keeps on evolving, but you will find a snapshot opposite.

London operates as the business and finance hub of Europe with over 16,000 national and international companies based in the City, including companies from more than 60 different countries. Many of these are among the world’s leading corporations and financial institutions.

1112

The�Independent,�Royal�Mail,�EMI,�Cadbury,�British�Land,�Fujitsu,��BHP�Billiton,��Royal�Dutch�Shell,�HSBC,�Vodafone�Group,�BP,�Rio�Tinto�Group,�GlaxoSmithKline,�Unilever,�British�American�Tobacco,�BG�Group

Sally Davies Sally is a partner in our Construction & Engineering group and trained at the firm. She also works with our graduate recruitment team to help identify the best new talent for Mayer Brown.

“�We�are�always�interested�in�meeting�people�who��have�done�that�little�bit�more�in�their�lives.�Of�course�a�strong�academic�background�is�essential�but�life�experience�and�an�understanding�of�the�bigger�picture�is�vital�too.�The�people�who�really�excel�in��our�recruitment�process�are�the�ones�who’ve�done�their�research,�taken�the�time�to�find�out�about�what�a�career�as�a�city�solicitor�really�involves�and�those�who�let�their�personalities�shine�through.”

13 14

“�As�a�trainee,�you’ll�need�an�open�mind�and�to�consider�every�opportunity�that�comes�your�way.�During�my�second�seat�I�was�given�the�chance�to�work�on�a�project�finance�deal�in�Eritrea�and�visited�the�client�there.�It�gave�me�a�real�taste�for�working�abroad�and,�when�the�time�came�to�consider�a�secondment,�I�secured�a�seat�working�for�one�of��our�top�shipping�finance�partners�in�Hong�Kong.”

13 14

Pradeep Madhavan Pradeep studied Law at university, trained with Mayer Brown and qualified as a lawyer in our Banking & Finance group in 2010.

2002 Mayer, Brown & Platt combines with Rowe & Maw, forming Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP.

2007 The firm opens an office in Hong Kong; establishes an alliance relationship with Ramón y Cajal Abogados, a Spanish law firm based in Madrid; opens an office in São Paulo; officially changes its name to Mayer Brown; and announces the combination of Mayer Brown and JSM, a leading Asia law firm.

2008 Combination of Mayer Brown and JSM is finalised. The Mayer Brown practices are known as Mayer Brown JSM in Asia.

2009 French litigation and arbitration firm Ayela Semerdjian & Associates merges with Mayer Brown’s Paris office; Mayer Brown forms an association with Brazilian law firm Tauil & Chequer.

2011 The firm extends its geographical presence in Asia by opening a new office in Singapore and streamlining operations in Germany with a new office in Dusseldorf.

15 16A�fine�balance�

Don’t expect anything in our world to stand still for long. We are a significant international firm but one still intimate enough to recognise and reward great talent wherever we find it. Because we are a large firm, you’ll find expanding opportunities to serve clients locally and internationally. And while we are driven to succeed and hard work is the norm, don’t expect a hothouse environment. You will need to compromise sometimes but, if you are prepared to be flexible, it is possible to balance work with a life outside Mayer Brown. Although we are one of the world’s largest full-service law firms, our London office is made up of tightly-knit teams with a culture that is open and inclusive. That means you get the best of both worlds at Mayer Brown.

Do you want a balance between local and global, a balance between working hard and flexibly, a balance between the past, present and future? Not a question you would normally be asked by a law firm, but we are different, we like balance at Mayer Brown.

Tom Jackson After a non-law degree at LSE, Tom started his training contract with us last year and is currently in his second seat in Banking & Finance.

“�Both�my�supervisors�so�far�are�heads�of�their�respective�fields:�Restructuring,�Bankruptcy�&�Insolvency�and�Derivatives�&�Structured�Products.�Both�are�rather�specialised�fields,�so�having�the�opportunity�to�sit�with�and�learn�from�such�senior�figures�has�been�an�excellent�experience.�A�particular�highlight�for�me�so�far�was�attending�the�Supreme�Court�hearing�of�a�complex�cross-border�insolvency�dispute�I�worked�on�throughout�my�first�seat.”

17 18

“�I�really�enjoyed�my�first�six�months�at�Mayer�Brown,�sitting�in�the�firm’s�Real�Estate�group.�In�particular,��I�really�enjoyed�the�high�level�of�responsibility�trainees�were�given�and�that�we�were�trusted�to�speak�to�clients,�lawyers�and�third�parties�on�a�daily�basis.�My�experience�was�further�enhanced�by�the�fantastic�training�and�support�I�was�given�and�the�many�social�events�organised�by�the�department.”

17 18

Salma Daneshmand Salma studied Philosophy and French at Bristol University. Having completed seats in Real Estate and EU/Competition, Salma is spending her third seat on secondment to one of our global clients.

A�diverse�commercial�environment

As one of the leading international law firms, we think it’s vital that we nurture talent that is as diverse as our business. By keeping an open mind and treating each other with dignity and respect, we have a richly diverse firm that reflects the ever-changing world in which we operate. Expect us to set high standards – training as a lawyer at Mayer Brown is no easy task – but you can expect us to be open to applications from all kinds of backgrounds and experiences too. We continually keep our recruitment strategy under review as the firm continues to be strengthened by its diversity.

Mayer Brown takes pro bono work and social responsibility seriously. In the London office, more than a quarter of our people are involved in pro bono and community service projects over the course of any year and we have been recognised locally and internationally for our achievements in this area.

1920

RecruitmentWe want opportunities at Mayer Brown to be accessible to everyone and to encourage people to join us from a wide range of backgrounds. We are working with several organisations, including Pathways to Law, the Social Mobility Foundation and Stonewall, to ensure our recruitment processes are accessible to everyone.

Employee welfareImportantly, our diversity strategy is not just limited to recruitment. Helping all our people reach their individual potential takes a flexible working environment. From our onsite GP to networks and groups specifically designed for women, working parents and those who need flexibility in their working lives, you will find Mayer Brown mindful of your welfare.

Finding out moreYou can discover more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion by visiting www.mayerbrown.com/diversity

Our�location

Our state-of-the-art London headquarters opened in 2009. 201 Bishopsgate sits in the heart of the City of London and is part of Broadgate, one of the pre-eminent addresses for law and other professional services firms. Designed with our people and our clients in mind, you can expect the very best working environment. Our building’s green credentials are outstanding too.

Inside 201, as well as offices and meeting rooms, you will find a busy café, a lecture theatre, private dining rooms for client entertaining and plenty of informal space to meet and discuss work and the world outside.

Mayer Brown’s culture reflects this thriving international environment with lawyers in the heart of the City. The London office provides a full service presence working together with its US, European and Asian teams to provide clients with complete representation on local and multi-jurisdictional matters alike.

Our�location

Our state-of-the-art London headquarters opened in 2009. 201 Bishopsgate sits in the heart of the City of London and is part of Broadgate, one of the pre-eminent addresses for law and other professional services firms. Designed with our people and our clients in mind, you can expect the very best working environment. Our building’s green credentials are outstanding too.

Inside 201, as well as offices and meeting rooms, you will find a busy café, a lecture theatre, private dining rooms for client entertaining and plenty of informal space to meet and discuss work and the world outside.

Mayer Brown’s culture reflects this thriving international environment with lawyers in the heart of the City. The London office provides a full service presence working together with its US, European and Asian teams to provide clients with complete representation on local and multi-jurisdictional matters alike.

“�Only�48�people�live�in�it�but�46,000�people�work��in�it.�That’s�the�ward�of�Bishopsgate�that�we’re�talking�about,�where�our�London�office�is�based.��Join�us�and�be�one�of�the�46,000.”

21 22

OLD ST

GREAT EASTERN ST

LONDON WALL LONDON WALL BEVIS MARKS

MO

ORG

ATE

C

ITY

ROAD

TOW

ER B

RIDG

E

RIVER THAMES

Bunhill Fields

OLD STREET

BARBICAN

LIVERPOOL STREET

ST PAUL’S

MOORGATE

MANSION HOUSE

CANNON STREET

MONUMENT

SHOREDITCHHIGH STREET

LONDON BRIDGE

ALDGATE

BANK

FENCHURCHSTREET

201BISHOPSGATE

KAPLAN LAWSCHOOL

“Our�office�is�here.”

21 22

OLD ST

GREAT EASTERN ST

LONDON WALL LONDON WALL BEVIS MARKS

MO

ORG

ATE

C

ITY

ROAD

TOW

ER B

RIDG

E

RIVER THAMES

Bunhill Fields

OLD STREET

BARBICAN

LIVERPOOL STREET

ST PAUL’S

MOORGATE

MANSION HOUSE

CANNON STREET

MONUMENT

SHOREDITCHHIGH STREET

LONDON BRIDGE

ALDGATE

BANK

FENCHURCHSTREET

201BISHOPSGATE

KAPLAN LAWSCHOOL

“�Tell�me��about�work”

This section 25 How do law firms fit into the business world?27 The team

2324

How do law firms fit into the business world? What do lawyers really do? How do trainees contribute to the work of a firm like Mayer Brown and what happens to them once training is over? Getting under the skin of life at a firm like ours is best done by coming along and being part of it yourself. Our work is diverse and choosing a single example to show you was tough, but this guide is about one of our project finance deals. This is just one story among thousands, but as an insight into a career at Mayer Brown, it’s the real deal.

“�How�do�law�firms�fit�into�the�business�world?

25 26The�deal

Afghanistan has incredible natural resources. Reserves of gold, copper, iron ore, lithium and rare earths are thought to be worth trillions of dollars and getting them out of the ground is key to the development of economic stability and sovereignty in Afghanistan. Mayer Brown has been tasked with developing the first ever legal framework to make mining possible in Afghanistan. The legal challenges are immense and the team’s main task is to create a stable framework so that potential investors have the confidence that their multi-billion dollar investments are secure for the length of the project. The team are also developing mining contracts and advising on the award of mining licences. It’s hard to overstate the importance this project could have in the future of Afghanistan and, by implication, that part of the world.

Mayer Brown’s Mining team is used to advising on industry firsts. The team has worked on pioneering mining projects in almost every single country where significant mining activity takes place across the globe.

“Let’s�get�some�lunch.”

Rachel�SpeightPartner�in�Banking�&�Finance

Jon�Olson-WelshSenior�associate��in�Construction��&�Engineering

27 28The�team

Avanthi�GunatilakeAssociate�in�Banking�&�Finance

Matt�NelsonTrainee�solicitor

Ian�ColesGlobal�head�of�Mining

27 28The�team

Ian’s words of advice

Take the time to understand and never be afraid to ask questions or express an opinion. My view is that the more you invest the more you gain.

“That’s�Jon,�he’s�a�smart�one.”

29 30Ian

“�A�deal�like�this�requires�real�teamwork.��The�associates�and�trainees�make�a�critical�contribution.�Anyone�who�decides�to�train��with�us�can�expect�to�be�treated�as�a�fully��paid-up�team�member�who�is�encouraged��to�offer�a�view�on�whatever�is�being�discussed.”

Ian�ColesGlobal�head�of�Mining

29 30Ian

Rachel’s words of advice

Being well organised is invaluable particularly when the pace of the deal picks up and you need to keep an eye on the detail.

“�That’s�Avanthi,�she’s�a�little�camera�shy.”

31 32Rachel

“�This�deal�requires�us�to�be�flexible�–�you�could��find�yourself�speaking�to�a�geologist�in�Afghanistan�one�day�and�an�investment�banker�in�New�York�the�next,�so�we�need�to�be�sensitive�to�the�needs�of�the�different�parties.�No�two�days�are�the�same.”

Rachel�SpeightPartner�in�Banking�&�Finance

31 32Rachel

Jon’s words of advice

I work in the Construction and Engineering team, but this project involves us working together across departments. As a trainee and then an associate, you’re constantly building your own networks within the firm, and it’s those that help you get things done most effectively. Projects like this are great opportunities to use your networks and get the best out of them.

“Matt’s�profile�is�on�the�next�page.”

33 34Jon

“�As�associates,�it’s�our�job�to�critically�review�and�prepare�the�documentation�and�get�to�grips�with�the�law�and�precedents.�As�ever,�we�work�closely�with�the�partners�–�trust�is�really�important�and�you�have�to�earn�it.”

Jon�Olson-WelshSenior�associate�in��Construction�&�Engineering

33 34Jon

Matt’s words of advice

Everything you do is on show as a trainee and every detail matters and makes a difference. Anyone training at Mayer Brown needs to be prepared to use their initiative and offer an opinion when a partner asks for one. Be yourself. There’s room to be an individual here, not a clone.

“�Rachel’s�always�there�to�help�the�trainees.”

35 36Matt

“�The�trainee’s�role�demands�a�lot�of�initiative��and�enthusiasm,�making�sure�that�everyone�has��what�they�need�and�getting�the�necessary�research��done.�It’s�a�brilliant�way�to�get�an�insight�into��what�everyone�else�does,�from�the�lead�partners��to�secretaries�to�foreign�legal�counsel,�and�to�see��how�it�all�works.”�

Matt�NelsonTrainee�solicitor

35 36Matt

Avanthi’s words of advice

Keep your mind open about every task; even the repetitive tasks make an important contribution to the success of the deal.

“We�told�you�she’s�there�to�help.”

37 38Avanthi

“�Communication�among�a�team�is�key,�and�I�believe�everyone�should�have�the�opportunity�to�speak�up�and�be�encouraged�to�contribute;�all�insights�are�invaluable.�This�is�an�environment�where�everyone�can�have�an�opinion�and�there�is�a�real�expectation�that�you’ll�take�part.”

Avanthi�Gunatilake�Associate�in�Banking�&�Finance

37 38Avanthi

“�How�do�I�apply?”

This section 41 Applying yourself43 What’s the best way to get to know the firm?45 How can I improve my skills?47 Is there a Work Experience Programme?49 Where will I do my training?53 Which firm is right for you?55 What’s the best way to apply?59 What are the key dates?63 What’s the interview like?67 What happens after the application?

3940

What’s involved in training to be a lawyer at Mayer Brown? What’s the best way to get to know us? What are we looking for at interview, and what’s the secret of completing a winning application form? From what happens on Open Days and Work Experience Programmes through to tips on applications and interviews, this guide focuses on some of the practical information you need to know if you’re considering applying to us. You will also find details of the training journey successful applicants take once they join us.

Applying yourself

Our trainee pool is wide and represents individuals of varying experiences and backgrounds. Some trainees have even had previous careers before joining our firm. It is safe to say there is no conventional Mayer Brown trainee. While studying law is not a prerequisite, applications from those who have a strong commitment to pursuing a career in law and proven academic ability are particularly welcome. As well as those who have a consistently strong academic record, generally a minimum of a 2.1 degree in any discipline, we are looking for those who have a wide range of interests and achievements outside their academic career.

As a global law firm specialising in a wide range of practice areas, our trainee intake is representative of the firm itself. As a trainee in London, you will be encouraged to play an active part of a team, dealing with clients on a day-to-day basis, on a wide range of business issues.

Applying yourself

Our trainee pool is wide and represents individuals of varying experiences and backgrounds. Some trainees have even had previous careers before joining our firm. It is safe to say there is no conventional Mayer Brown trainee. While studying law is not a prerequisite, applications from those who have a strong commitment to pursuing a career in law and proven academic ability are particularly welcome. As well as those who have a consistently strong academic record, generally a minimum of a 2.1 degree in any discipline, we are looking for those who have a wide range of interests and achievements outside their academic career.

Open Days are every year – December and January.

41 42

“ As graduate recruitment partner here at Mayer Brown, I work closely with our HR team, and individual practice groups to make sure our trainees are given the attention, support and and opportunities they need to succeed in the legal world.”

Will GlasseyGraduate recruitment partner

41 42

Will Glassey After qualifying as a barrister and solicitor in New Zealand in 1994, Will Glassey joined Mayer Brown in 2000 and was made a partner in our Insurance & Reinsurance group in 2002. Will is also one of our graduate recruitment partners.

“�What’s�the�best�way�to�get�to�know�the�firm?”

Open Days are every year – December and January.

You can find application details for our Open Days in the application timetable on page 61 of this section.

43 44

Open Days An opportunity for you to meet some of our partners, mingle with our current trainees and get some insider tips on making your application and impressing at interview.

We run Open Days every year in December and January. These are open to all undergraduates and graduates, regardless of degree discipline. Each day has a full programme of events and has been designed to provide a real insight into life at Mayer Brown and the opportunities on offer. As well as meeting some of our partners, associates and trainees informally, the Open Days also include seminars by leading partners from two of our major practice areas, a commercial exercise, a day in the life of a trainee and a skills session with our graduate recruitment team.

“�How�can�I�improve�my�skills?”

For programme dates and application details go to: www.mayerbrown.com/graduates

45 46

Skills sessions Each year we visit many universities to deliver our on-campus skills sessions. These have been designed to help increase your chances of securing a training contract and are a great way to find out more about Mayer Brown.

Many of our trainees first met us at one of these popular events and they are useful opportunities to get the inside track on our firm.

“�Is�there�a�Work�Experience�Programme?”

You can find application details for our Open Days in the application timetable on page 61 of this section.

For programme dates and application details go to: www.mayerbrown.com/graduates

47 48

Work experience Every year we offer three paid Work Experience Programmes. There is one in the spring and two over the summer. The Programmes will give you a valuable insight into the world of a trainee at Mayer Brown and first-hand experience of life at a global law firm. The Programmes are very hands-on – you will be sharing an office with a partner or associate, assisting them on real deals and helping with their day-to-day work.

You will have the opportunity to sit within two departments and we will ask you in advance which areas interest you most.

To supplement the practical work experience, you will also attend presentations and workshops covering our practice areas, designed to give you even more insight into the breadth of the firm. Expect plenty of planned social activities, including a trip to one of our European offices.

You will be based at our City of London office and you will be able to meet, work and socialise with trainees, associates and partners. You will be assigned a trainee buddy during the Programme, who will act as your personal guide during your time here with the firm.

“�Where�will�I�do�my�training?”

www.kaplan-law-school.kaplan.co.uk

A Professional Skills Course (PSC) must be completed by all trainee solicitors.

49 50

The training journey Life as a trainee with Mayer Brown begins at Kaplan Law School with the Legal Practice Course (LPC). The Kaplan LPC has been exclusively tailored to reflect our core practice areas. The course includes a Mayer Brown Commercial Contracts Elective, devised by Kaplan in collaboration with our lawyers.

In addition to the LPC, Mayer Brown students at Kaplan participate in an LPC Enhancement Programme. These sessions are designed to smooth the transition from legal studies to working life and to improve presentation and writing skills, teamwork, relationship management, commercial awareness and time management.

The sessions include:

•a five-module course on US law, with presentations by the students at our London office;

• research exercises carried out in our Information Centre; and

•sessions on briefing your supervisor and running a client meeting.

The training contractDuring the two years there are four seats – including a secondment to one of our major clients in the UK or possibly to one of our international offices. During each six-month seat, you will share an office with a partner or senior associate, who will act as your supervisor and mentor. You can expect to be given high levels of responsibility, case management and client contact from an early stage, as well as two appraisals to discuss your training journey.

The training programmeTraining and development are a way of life at Mayer Brown, but your first two years will be the most intensive time for learning. Supporting you through this time is an important part of our commitment to you.

The Professional Skills Course (PSC) must be completed by all trainees prior to qualifying as a solicitor. The course comprises of three core modules: Financial & Business Skills, Advocacy & Communication Skills and Client Care & Professional Standards.

51 52

In addition to these three core modules, we will also ask you to complete the following electives:

•Introduction to the City;•Communication Skills;•Personal Effectiveness; and•Presentation Skills.

You will also get the chance to attend our new Trainee Development Centre to enhance your client handling skills and business acumen.

After your training contractTraining and development remain an important part of life at Mayer Brown after qualification. Our comprehensive programme focuses on delivering appropriate professional and technical training initiatives. These are specifically designed to develop lawyers with strong technical and commercial skills through our Associate and Senior Associate Development Centres.

“�Which�firm�is�right�for�you?”

53 54

Choosing a firm Big and global or small and intimate? Specialist expertise or broad skills? Finding the firm that is right for you will take research.

Careers servicesStart here. Talk to an adviser about your skills and your plans. They will have literature from lots of firms for you to look at. They can also tell you about law firm recruitment days, skills sessions or presentations that are coming up. Later in the process, they can help you to complete your application form and prepare for your assessment.

Careers directoriesThere are lots of publications available, in print and online, which will tell you about the size of different firms and the types of work in which they specialise. Some will also have ‘day in the life’ and trainee solicitor profiles. Your Careers Service will have directories for you to look at that will help you to draw up your shortlist of firms.

Law FairsLaw Fairs are an opportunity to hear what life is really like at a law firm – in person, not just on paper. They are a great opportunity to talk to trainees and associates who have been in the same position as you and to find out more about the culture of each firm.

“�What’s�the�best�way�to�apply?”

Checklist•Check your junk mail•Keep your details up to date•Do a rough draft first•Tell the truth!•Check, check and check again•Keep a copy•Covering letters•Follow-up

55 56

The application Once you have decided that Mayer Brown is the right firm for you, the next step is making an application. Of course, there is more to this than form filling. Here are some simple tips that have helped other people secure an opportunity at Mayer Brown:

1. Check your junk mail Spam and junk email filters can stop important emails getting to your inbox (especially Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo!). Either check your junk mailbox regularly or change your settings.

2. Keep your details up to date If you change your email, phone number or address, don’t forget to tell us. We might need to get more information from you, or invite you to an Assessment Centre or interview. (If you are using a university email account, check how long it stays active for after you graduate).

3. Do a rough draft first Print off a few blank copies of the form. Work on a rough draft that you can refine for the final, clean copy. This will help you to gain an overall understanding of the information required, so you don’t just write whatever springs to mind.

4. Tell the truth! We check all the references and grades you give us, so there is no point trying to enhance anything. Don’t try to be someone you are not. You will impress us far more by being honest.

5. Check, check and check again Attention to detail is essential for a legal career, as are strong communication skills. Mistakes on your form can really count against you. Ask someone to proofread it for you.

57 58

6. Keep a copy It is hard to remember what you wrote on your form by the time you get to interview. Make sure you keep a copy of your completed form so you can refresh your memory later.

7. Covering letters Keep them concise, to the point and then check and proofread them too.

8. Follow-up We will send you a confirmation email within 24 hours of receiving your application. If you haven’t heard from us, phone us to check whether we have received anything from you.

“�What�are�the�key�dates?”

59 60

Timing The timing of your application is key. Overleaf is a step-by-step guide to our trainee solicitor recruitment process and also includes a few hints and tips to make sure you have all the information you need. Mayer Brown values diversity and welcomes applications from all areas of the community.

Application timetable

Open Days Work Experience Programmes

Training Contracts

Spring

Summer

Beginning September 2015/ March 2016

Open to: Undergraduates GraduatesAll disciplines

Undergraduates GraduatesAll disciplines

Penultimate year law undergraduatesFinal year undergraduates from all disciplines.

Undergraduates Graduates All disciplines

ApplyFrom 1 November 2012

1 November 2012 to 31 January 2013


1 November 2012 to 31 July 2013

InterviewsN/A

January/February 2013


2012 to 2013

DatesDecember 2012/January 2013

From 1 November 2012

Other informationApply online

Apply online. If successful, you will be asked to complete an online verbal reasoning test followed by a 40-minute interview with a member of the graduate recruitment team.


Apply online. If successful you will then be invited to a one-day Assessment Centre where you will complete a written exercise, an interview with two partners and a group exercise. Law undergraduates should apply after receiving their penultimate year results.

61 62

Application timetable

Open Days Work Experience Programmes

Training Contracts

Spring

Summer

Beginning September 2015/ March 2016

Open to: Undergraduates GraduatesAll disciplines

Undergraduates GraduatesAll disciplines

Penultimate year law undergraduatesFinal year undergraduates from all disciplines.

Undergraduates Graduates All disciplines

ApplyFrom 1 November 2012



1 November 2012 to 31 July 2013

InterviewsN/A



2012 to 2013

DatesDecember 2012/January 2013

From 1 November 2012

Other informationApply online



Apply online. If successful you will then be invited to a one-day Assessment Centre where you will complete a written exercise, an interview with two partners and a group exercise. Law undergraduates should apply after receiving their penultimate year results.

“�What’s�the�interview�like?”

Checklist•Know the firm•Know your role•Know yourself•Be punctual•Look the part•Be natural•Think ahead•Be positive•Ask questions•Get feedback

63 64

Interview tips The most important advice we can give you is to be yourself at interview. We don’t want you to be over rehearsed or scripted for your interview but being well prepared is important. Here are some ideas that might help you do well:

Know the firmFind out everything you can about Mayer Brown and the areas in which we specialise. You don’t need to memorise everything – but you should have a sense of our size, scope and identity, as well as how we differ from our competitors.

Know your roleUnderstand what you are applying for. Read some trainee profiles, visit Law Fairs and Open Days. Make sure you know what a trainee solicitor actually does.

Know yourselfKnow your strengths. Why would you fit in well here? What have you done in your life that has shaped who you are? Have some stories about yourself ready to share.

Be punctualTime management is critical for lawyers. Leave yourself plenty of time to arrive.

Look the partWe are not judging on style, but the way you present yourself is very important. Dress, body language and your enthusiasm all contribute to that all-important first impression.

Be naturalTry to relax and be yourself. We are all normal people, and we want to see you for who you really are. This will help to ensure that you are suited to the position of trainee solicitor.

Think aheadDon’t rehearse your answers, but do have some thoughts and opinions ready. All of us have weaknesses but make sure you have a positive slant on yours.

65 66

Be positiveHave some faith in yourself. Confidence is a very attractive quality (in good measure). Own up to your faults but don’t dwell on them and resist the temptation to criticise unnecessarily.

Ask questionsThis is the one most people struggle with. The trick is not to over think it. Instead of trying to think up an ‘intelligent’ question, focus on asking about the things you genuinely want to know about but haven’t found in your research.

Get feedbackIf you are unsuccessful, then take the opportunity to get constructive feedback on your performance.

“�What�happens�after�the�application?”

Checklist•Watch the clock•Don’t over-draft•The approach to take•Keep it simple•Remember your audience•Be diplomatic•Pay attention

67 68

The Assessment Centre If we like your application, we will want to know a lot more before making a decision. Assessment Centres are a great way to do this, but we know that they can be stressful. Stay calm and consider some advice from people who have lived through them.

Watch the clockPlan your time – some for reading and digesting, some for writing.

Don’t over-draftGet your thoughts down on paper quickly. Don’t waste time on notes and outlines, just write.

The approach to takeLaw is all about analysis and interpretation – don’t waste time restating the facts; tell us what you think instead.

Keep it simpleCommunication skills are essential for a legal career – be clear, avoid jargon and don’t over complicate your language.

Remember your audienceWould you be happy to submit what you have written to a partner? It should be concise and considered.

Be diplomaticDon’t be afraid to voice your opinion – but do it constructively. Make a suggestion; don’t just tear apart someone else’s idea.

Pay attentionActive listening is another key skill. That means absorbing what others are saying and acknowledging that you are listening to what they say by nodding, smiling and keeping eye contact.

“�I’ll�make�some�notes”

71 72

Notes

73 74

Notes

75 76

Notes

77 78

Notes

“�I’ve�got�some�more�questions”

79 80

If you have any questions please get in touch. We would love to hear from you.

A copy of this booklet and other information about Mayer Brown is available online.

Mayer Brown 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AF

www.mayerbrown.com

+44 (0)20 3130 8524

81 82

[email protected]

www.mayerbrown.com/graduates

81 82

Paper This paper contains material sourced from responsibly managed forests, certified in accordance with the FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) and is manufactured in the UK. Design Bostock and Pollitt Limited, LondonPrint Granite

“�In�this�book�you’ll�find�everything�you��need�to�know�about�training�as�a�lawyer��and�how�to�be�chosen�by�Mayer�Brown.”

www.mayerbrown.com

www.mayerbrown.com

Mayer Brown is a global legal services provider comprising legal practices that are separate entities (the “Mayer Brown Practices”). The Mayer Brown Practices are: Mayer Brown LLP and Mayer Brown Europe–Brussels LLP, both limited liability partnerships established in Illinois USA; Mayer Brown International LLP, a limited liability partnership incorporated in England and Wales (authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and registered in England and Wales number OC 303359); Mayer Brown, a SELAS established in France; Mayer Brown JSM, a Hong Kong partnership and its associated entities in Asia; and Tauil & Chequer Advogados, a Brazilian law partnership with which Mayer Brown is associated. “Mayer Brown” and the Mayer Brown logo are the trademarks of the Mayer Brown Practices in their respective jurisdictions.

© 2012. The Mayer Brown Practices. All rights reserved.

Mayer Brown Graduate Recruitment PDF Robinson Katherine studied History at Oxford University and...

Documents

Transcript of Mayer Brown Graduate Recruitment PDF Robinson Katherine studied History at Oxford University and...