This session explores the different qualification routes into the legal profession and compares how long each typically takes. It breaks down the most common pathways, including their structure, timelines, and key commitments, helping attendees understand what is involved at each stage. The session focuses on providing clarity around duration, progression, and how different routes align with individual goals and circumstances. It is designed for students and graduates who are unsure which qualification path is right for them and want a clearer framework to plan their next steps with confidence.

Registrations are open for a virtual insight session with Charles Russell Speechlys, designed to introduce students to the firm and its work across key practice areas. The session provides insight into the firm’s culture, client base, and approach to legal practice, with speakers discussing their career paths, day-to-day work, and what the firm looks for in future trainees. Attendees will also gain an understanding of how the firm’s values translate into practice and how teams collaborate across departments. The event includes an overview of early-career opportunities at the firm, alongside guidance on preparing competitive applications and standing out during the recruitment process. It is aimed at students and graduates seeking a clearer understanding of Charles Russell Speechlys and what a career at a full-service international law firm involves in practice.

This virtual masterclass explores the pupillage application process through the experiences of barristers from Henderson Chambers, Keating Chambers, and Landmark Chambers, alongside a careers expert from University of Law. Speakers will discuss how they navigated the highly competitive pupillage selection process, share practical advice on applications, and highlight what chambers look for in strong candidates. The session will also cover commercial awareness, focusing on topical issues future barristers should be aware of. The event includes a panel discussion followed by virtual networking with barristers, members of pupillage committees, and ULaw representatives. Ideal for students and graduates considering a career at the Bar or preparing to apply for pupillage.

This virtual session forms the second part of the Bar Series and focuses on preparing strong pupillage applications as deadlines approach. The session covers key questions candidates face at the application stage, including how to choose the right chambers, refine a legal CV, draft persuasive written applications that progress through the paper sift, and perform effectively at interview. The event features a talk from James Leech, Future Pupil Programme Coordinator at The University of Law, followed by a live Q&A with a panel of current pupils. Speakers share practical insight into what chambers look for and how successful candidates distinguish themselves during the selection process. It is aimed at students and graduates considering the Bar who want clearer guidance on navigating pupillage applications and avoiding common pitfalls.

Registrations are open for Commercial Law 101, a four-part virtual series delivered by Linklaters for students interested in commercial law and careers at global law firms. The series is designed to build a clear understanding of what commercial lawyers do, how international firms operate, and how early-career candidates can position themselves effectively in a competitive recruitment market. Across the sessions, attendees will gain practical insight into the structure of commercial law firms, the nature of their work, and what differentiates strong applicants. The first session, Breaking Into the Industry, focuses on how to launch a career in commercial law. Led by Jake Schogger, founder of the Commercial Law Academy, the session provides an insider perspective on the recruitment process, early preparation strategies, and common misconceptions about commercial legal careers. The series is aimed at students from all universities who want a clearer, more practical introduction to commercial law and the steps involved in entering the profession.

Registrations are open for Legal Cheek’s flagship virtual event series for Year 12 and 13 students considering the solicitor apprenticeship route, delivered in partnership with University of Law and 24 leading law firms. The next session takes place on Tuesday 13 January 2026 (4:30pm–6:00pm) and features current solicitor apprentices from 12 major firms. Through a series of short workshops, speakers will share practical insight into what a solicitor apprenticeship involves, including expectations versus reality, managing city life and social commitments, and what qualification looks like in practice. The session is followed by a virtual law fair, where attendees can speak directly with participating firms to learn more about their apprenticeship programmes and recruitment processes. The event is aimed at sixth-form students exploring alternatives to the traditional university route into law and offers direct insight from those currently training through solicitor apprenticeships. Participating firms include: Ashurst, Bates Wells, Bird & Bird, Burges Salmon, Gowling WLG, Hogan Lovells, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, Kennedys, Linklaters, Mishcon de Reya, Norton Rose Fulbright, Osborne Clarke, Pinsent Masons, RPC, Shoosmiths, Slaughter and May, Stephenson Harwood, Taylor Wessing, Watson Farley & Williams, Wedlake Bell, Weightmans, Weil Gotshal & Manges, White & Case, and Womble Bond Dickinson. The event is part of a dual-date virtual series. A single registration provides access to both sessions.

This virtual careers talk features Frances Gibb, a freelance journalist with extensive experience covering law and legal affairs for major publications including The Times, The Spectator and Counsel magazine. Frances reflects on her career journey, discussing how her studies shaped her path into journalism and how she developed a long-standing specialism in legal reporting. She shares insight from more than three decades at The Times, where she progressed from general news reporting to legal affairs correspondent and later legal editor, a role she held for over 20 years before leaving in 2019 to focus on independent writing, journalism and podcasting. The session also explores the intersection between law and journalism, making it particularly relevant for students interested in legal reporting or programmes such as the LLM in Journalism and the Law. Attendees have the opportunity to hear candid reflections on career development and ask questions about working in legal journalism.

This virtual event offers students and graduates an introduction to private wealth law through the lens of Womble Bond Dickinson’s private capital practice. The session explores how lawyers advise wealthy individuals, families and other sources of private capital, covering both the transactional and contentious aspects of the work. The firm’s head of private capital, Neil Long, shares insight into the team’s practice across multiple UK offices, recent high-profile matters, and career pathways within this area. He is joined by managing associates and solicitors from the private capital team, who provide further perspective on day-to-day work and progression. The event includes short talks, a panel discussion, and virtual networking with the speakers, trainees and members of the firm’s early talent team, making it suitable for those interested in private wealth or broader commercial practice.

This webinar is aimed at first-year students who want a clearer understanding of the legal career path and how to approach early opportunities in the City. The session focuses on what law firms look for at first-year level, how to make the most of insight programmes and open days, and how to start building strong applications from the outset. Panellists from leading City law firms share practical insight into the recruitment process, common misconceptions, and the steps students can take early on to position themselves more effectively. It is designed for students who are exploring commercial law or already considering City firms, and offers realistic guidance, insider perspectives, and the opportunity to gain clarity on how to use first year strategically.

This session explores what the SQE exam experience is really like, from preparation through to sitting the assessments. It provides an honest overview of how candidates typically prepare, how the exams are structured, and what exam day feels like in practice. The discussion also covers common challenges candidates face, how pressure can be managed, and what tends to make the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling in control. The session is designed for anyone preparing for the SQE or considering the qualification route, offering realistic insight to help candidates approach the exams with greater clarity and confidence.

Registrations are open for the second session in Commercial Law 101, a four-part virtual series delivered by Linklaters for students exploring careers in commercial law. This session, Crafting Exceptional Applications, focuses on how to turn your experiences and skills into strong, credible applications for global law firms. Led by Linklaters’ Global Talent Attraction Manager and a Trainee Recruitment Marketing Advisor, the session offers direct insight into how applications are assessed and what differentiates successful candidates. Speakers will explore how to present experience effectively, communicate motivation clearly, and approach interviews with confidence. The session is designed to demystify what recruiters look for at Linklaters and how students can position themselves competitively in a demanding recruitment process. It is aimed at students from all universities who want a clearer understanding of how to approach applications and interviews for commercial law opportunities at leading international firms.

This focused SQE1 preparation session covers one of the most heavily tested areas of FLK2: Wills, administration of estates, and Inheritance Tax. Led by Adam Khattak, a trainee solicitor at CMS Dubai who has sat and passed the SQE, the session breaks down how these topics are examined in practice and how candidates should approach them in the exam. Adam will walk through the core concepts tested in FLK2, including how estates are administered, how Inheritance Tax is calculated, and where candidates commonly lose marks. The session focuses on building exam-ready understanding rather than passive memorisation, showing how to spot issues, apply the rules, and avoid typical traps under time pressure. The workshop is aimed at SQE1 candidates who want a clearer, more structured approach to Wills and Inheritance Tax, and who want to learn from someone who has recently been through the exam and understands what it really takes to pass.

This session offers the opportunity to hear directly from a Partner at Glaisyers about the firm’s work and what it takes to succeed in practice. The discussion explores the firm’s key practice areas, the types of matters lawyers work on, and the skills and qualities valued at different stages of a legal career. The Partner will also share insight into their own career path and development within the firm. The session concludes with a live Q&A, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain practical perspective on legal practice and long-term career planning. It is aimed at aspiring lawyers seeking a clearer understanding of how firms operate and how to position themselves for future opportunities.

This virtual Bootcamp, delivered in collaboration with The University of Law, is designed for second- and third-year law students preparing to make law firm applications this year. The event combines short, focused presentations with dedicated networking time, giving attendees both practical guidance and direct exposure to law firms. The information sessions cover key areas of the application process, including setting priorities, researching firms effectively, building commercial awareness, and approaching written applications. Following the presentations, there is structured virtual networking with participating law firms, allowing students to ask questions, learn about different firms and gain insight into their recruitment processes. The Bootcamp is aimed specifically at law students in their second and third year who are actively considering a legal career and upcoming applications.

This session offers an inside look at trainee life at Harbottle & Lewis, shared directly by current trainees at the firm. The discussion covers what trainees actually do day to day, including the seats they have completed, the types of matters they have worked on, and the challenges and learning opportunities they have encountered along the way. Speakers also reflect on the firm’s culture and how training and development work in practice. The event is aimed at aspiring solicitors who want a realistic understanding of trainee life beyond firm websites and recruitment brochures, whether they are considering applying to Harbottle & Lewis or exploring how different firms structure their training experience.

Registrations are open for the third session in Commercial Law 101, a four-part virtual series delivered by Linklaters for students exploring careers in commercial law. This session, Trainee Stories and Live Q&A, centres on first-hand insight from current trainees who previously completed Linklaters’ Pathfinder programme. Speakers will share their routes into the firm, what their day-to-day work looks like, and how they experienced the transition from student to trainee. The discussion offers an honest perspective on training, culture, and development at a global law firm, alongside practical reflections on what helped them succeed during the recruitment process. A live Q&A allows attendees to hear directly from those who have recently navigated the same path. The session is aimed at students from all universities who want a realistic understanding of trainee life and how early insight programmes can support a future career in commercial law.

This session focuses on the practical realities of funding your SQE studies and planning the financial side of qualification. It breaks down the main funding routes available, including self-funding, employer sponsorship, loans and payment plans, helping you understand the costs involved and how different options work in practice. The discussion is designed to give clarity on what to expect financially and how to plan ahead, rather than relying on assumptions or incomplete information. The session is aimed at aspiring solicitors who want a clear, realistic understanding of how to finance their SQE studies so they can make informed decisions and focus on progressing towards qualification with confidence.

This masterclass is aimed at non-law students exploring a career in law and considering their next steps. Delivered by LawCareersNet in partnership with Michelmores and Osborne Clarke, the session explains what it means to enter the legal profession without a law background. Speakers cover how to research law firms, what recruiters look for in applications, and how to make a successful transition into law. The panel includes a trainee solicitor and a graduate recruitment advisor, offering both candidate and recruiter perspectives. It is designed for students who are early in their decision-making and want practical guidance on whether law is the right path for them and how to approach the process with clarity.

This session offers an inside look at the Corporate and Commercial practice at Bates Wells. Lawyers from the team explain what corporate law involves in practice and how the firm advises a broad client base, including social enterprises, B Corps and mainstream businesses. The discussion explores how legal advice supports sustainable growth, helps clients navigate complex regulatory frameworks and aligns commercial objectives with wider purpose. It is aimed at students and graduates seeking a clearer understanding of corporate and commercial work beyond firm marketing materials.

This virtual session with A&O Shearman focuses on how candidates can excel in the firm’s application process. The event offers practical insight into what the firm looks for at each stage of recruitment, how applications are assessed, and how candidates can present their experiences and strengths effectively. It also explains how information gathered during the application process is used to support fair and inclusive recruitment practices. The session is aimed at students who want a clearer understanding of how to approach applications to leading international law firms and how to put themselves in the strongest position to progress through the process.

This virtual student event focuses on Clifford Chance SPARK, the firm’s extended insight programme for early-stage law and non-law students. The session introduces how SPARK has evolved from a short internship into a nine-month programme delivered across two academic years, designed to provide deeper exposure to the firm’s work. Attendees will gain insight into how deals are structured in practice, hear from trainees and SPARK alumni about their experiences, and learn how the programme supports the development of legal knowledge, commercial awareness, and core business skills. The event also includes interactive networking with members of the early talent team, trainees, and future trainees, offering a clearer picture of the firm’s culture and early-career pathways.

Registrations are open for the final session in Commercial Law 101, a four-part virtual series delivered by Linklaters for students exploring careers in commercial law. This session, How a Law Firm Really Works, is led by Idin Sabahipour from LittleLaw and focuses on the commercial mechanics behind large law firms. It breaks down how firms generate revenue, how billable hours operate in practice, and how matters and teams are staffed. The session also explores how law firms make decisions around hiring, promotion, and long-term growth, offering a clearer picture of how legal work fits into a wider business model. It is aimed at students from all universities who want a practical understanding of how commercial law firms function beyond the legal theory, and how this knowledge can strengthen applications and interviews.

This in-person careers event focuses on helping students and graduates strengthen their commercial awareness ahead of vacation scheme and training contract interviews. Lawyers from Norton Rose Fulbright and Womble Bond Dickinson’s Newcastle offices, alongside a University of Law careers expert, will share insight into their own career journeys and what helped them succeed in competitive recruitment processes. The discussion also covers the commercial awareness topics firms expect candidates to understand and how these come up in interviews. The session is followed by informal networking, giving attendees the opportunity to speak directly with lawyers, trainees and graduate recruitment teams. It is aimed at students and graduates looking to better understand what firms assess and how to position themselves more effectively during applications and interviews.

This virtual masterclass offers an introduction to private equity through the lens of a leading international law firm. Two lawyers from Ropes & Gray’s private equity team will break down what private equity work involves in practice, explaining the structure of deals, the role lawyers play at each stage of the transaction cycle, and the commercial considerations that drive successful outcomes. The session also provides insight into what trainees can expect when working on private equity matters, including responsibilities, exposure, and learning opportunities early in their careers. The event is aimed at students interested in corporate law who want a clearer understanding of private equity and how legal teams support complex, high-value transactions.

This webinar explores what commercial law looks like beyond legal rules, focusing on the business realities that shape client decisions. The session examines how technological change, political and economic uncertainty, and shifting expectations around ethics and sustainability influence the advice clients seek from law firms. It looks at how these forces affect client priorities, risk, and strategy, and why commercial awareness is critical for aspiring commercial lawyers. Designed for students and graduates considering a career in commercial law, the webinar offers practical insight into how lawyers add value by understanding the wider context behind legal work. It is particularly relevant for those preparing training contract applications or looking to develop a stronger grasp of what firms assess when they talk about “commercial awareness.”

This practical application workshop focuses on tackling the initial written stage of law firm applications. Led by Dylan Anton, a future trainee solicitor at a Magic Circle firm, the session breaks down how to approach common written questions such as why law, why commercial law, and how to present work experience effectively. The workshop looks at what recruiters are actually assessing at this stage and how strong candidates structure their answers to be clear, specific, and relevant. The session is aimed at students and graduates preparing vacation scheme or training contract applications who want a more concrete understanding of how to write strong written responses, rather than relying on generic advice.