Why every law student should attend LawCareersNetLIVE

In 2020 students, including myself, felt the unexpected impact of the pandemic with the postponement of open days, vacation schemes and other legal events usually used as a point of contact by many to interact with firms.

However, as always, LawCareers.Net could be relied on to continue to support students during the ongoing pandemic. Last year LawCareers.Net hosted their annual LawCareersNetLIVE conference exclusively online, which enabled students to interact with top law firms and network with recruiters from the comfort of their own home and I was fortunate enough to secure a place.

Virtual networking

The atmosphere was very welcoming and relaxed from the outset, and I felt no nerves talking and participating on camera, which has become typical of the virtual world we now live in. In fact, throughout the event, we were strongly encouraged to network with firms such as BLM, Osborne Clarke, Pinsent Masons, and many others who were in attendance.

Panel discussions

Over the two days, I attended panel discussions on topics including ‘The law firm as a business’. The premise of this discussion was the economics of law firms; it also covered matters such as the challenges that are affecting the profession, including cybersecurity, and covid-19. We also had plenty of opportunities to speak to the firm’s representatives throughout the two days, either one-to-one or in small groups.

Highlights

My highlight from the conference was the firm-led workshops. Before the conference, delegates are given a chance to choose from an array of workshops to take part in, which cover topics from sports law to real estate.

The first one I attended was on international mergers and acquisitions hosted by Squire Patton Boggs. The interactive workshop involved case studies concerning a mock acquisition of a US-based company by a UK-based company. Delegates were split into small groups to discuss how to advise a client in this situation and the potential issues that might arise out of such a deal. This workshop provided valuable insight into an area of law I wasn’t particularly familiar with prior to attending the conference.

My second workshop, which was hosted by Shoosmiths, was about real estate. After an introduction to the firm and the type of work it carries out, we were again split into smaller peer groups to work through a case study based on instructions Shoosmiths typically receives when acting on behalf of its clients. The scenario considered the potential redevelopment of an area of land into a new commercial and residential complex.

The workshops were thoroughly enjoyed with the right balance of challenging and stimulating work throughout. Trainees and associates were on hand to answer any questions and provide guidance. I was able to take away a greater understanding and insight of the day-to-day work a trainee might do.

Talking point on applications

Overall, the event was a fantastic experience, and I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to attend. Not only has it provided a good source of motivation for me it has also undoubtedly become a talking point on my applications and in interviews, helping to demonstrate my commitment and drive to a career in the law.

In addition, the new connections I obtained through networking, not only with the firm’s representatives but also with my fellow peers, are priceless. They have all been supportive and encouraging. In a way, watching them progress on their journeys into the profession has become a true source of inspiration.

For reasons like this, I would highly recommend that anyone interested in pursuing a career in law should apply to LawCareersNetLIVE – both in person and virtually.

This year, LawCareersNetLIVE will be taking place in London, Manchester and virtually. Applications are now open and offers will be made on a rolling basis. The deadline for applications is 28 October 2021.

Remy Taylor is a dual qualifying (English and Scots) graduate due to start her LPC with The University of Law in September 2021. She is keen to pursue a career with a commercial law firm with a particular interest in employment law.