Simon Stephen, legal director at Gowling, opens up about how being honest about his mental health over the years has made for a better working environment.

Unless you're new to law firm applications, the concept of looking into a firm's culture is probably not new to you. But as much as 'the firm's culture' is referenced in application advice, what does it really mean? What do you have to look out for when researching culture? And what kinds of questions should you ask to get the answers you're looking for?

I feel like I’ve been mentally preparing for my vacation scheme ever since I got the offer back at the beginning of 2021. At that time, the scheme itself seemed as though it couldn’t be further away. I had endless time to prepare – almost too much! However, the months have been passing quickly this year and, all of a sudden, we’re now well into May. 

Working as a paralegal before securing a training contract is increasingly the norm for thousands of candidates. It’s even possible to qualify as a solicitor by gaining relevant experience as a paralegal, instead of a formal training contract – a route that could become even more popular with the introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Exam and qualifying work experience.

According to recruiters, too many candidates are let down by their sloppy writing skills. Shakespeare made up words, spelt his name however he pleased and is still praised for his mastery of language. However, if his cover letter was written along those lines today, every law firm would bin his application. So, how can you write the perfect cover letter, CV or application form.

Browne Jacobson LLP has partnered with one of the world’s leading virtual work experience platforms Forage to launch a brand-new programme that aims to improve diversity and inclusion within the legal sector.

High-performing student Saida Hidari has received “life-changing” funding from the Fraud Lawyers Association (FLA) to support her studies at the University of Salford.

People who attended state schools are still underrepresented in the legal profession, with criminal firms employing the highest proportion of state-educated solicitors and corporate firms the lowest, research by the Solicitors Regulation Authority reveals.

London South Bank University (LSBU), in collaboration with legal education provider BARBRI, is set to introduce Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) preparation into its legal master’s programme.  

There’s no strict deadline for the Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) application, so I'm relying purely on what little energy and motivation I have left after a gruelling month of final exams for my English degree.

Law fairs are an important stage of the recruitment process, offering you the chance to meet recruiters, trainee solicitors and partners from the law firms you could be joining in the future. Find out more about the opportunities available in our guide to law fairs.

Law fairs are an important stage of the recruitment process, offering you the chance to meet recruiters, trainee solicitors and partners from the law firms you could be joining in the future. Find out more about the opportunities available in this guide to law fairs.

Let’s face it – law school is changing. Sure, the textbooks are still heavy and the case briefs still keep students up at night. But now, there’s a new tool in the mix that’s changing how students study, write and even think about the law – generative AI.

Mid-sized City firm Bircham Dyson Bell and regional firm Pitmans have announced the commencement of talks over a potential merger.

The booking window for November’s Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE), SQE1, will close at 5:00pm on Monday 27 September. 

There are plenty of resources about what employers should do to avoid any pitfalls with Christmas parties, but employees also play a big part in making sure that Christmas parties go well and are memorable for the right reasons. We all play a part in ensuring that we have an enjoyable Christmas party and can go to work with our collective consciences clear!

How have the tactics of organised criminal groups evolved over the years? 

What are the implications of the government’s decision regarding money purchase benefits of pension schemes?

The Harry Potter series by JK Rowling is considered one of the most beloved of all time, and not just to the Potterhead community. It’s hard not to fall in love with the characters, storyline and writing of the series. Not only is it entertaining, it also teaches priceless life lessons that can be carried from elementary school all the way into adulthood. From The Sorcerer’s Stone to The Deathly Hallows, here are eight life lessons that law students can learn from the famous adventure.