Clifford Chance

 
 

The Firm

We are one of the world's largest law firms, with significant depth and range of resources across five continents.

As a single, fully integrated, global partnership, we pride ourselves on our approachable, collegial and team-based way of working.

We always strive to exceed the expectations of our clients, which include corporates from all the commercial and industrial sectors, the financial investor community, governments, regulators, trade bodies and not-for-profit organisations. We provide them with the highest-quality advice and legal insight, which combines the Firm's global standards with in-depth local expertise.

Last, but not least, we aim to be easy to work with, down to earth and approachable.

Early Careers and Graduate Opportunities

SPARK Programme

  • What it is: A long-term programme (9 months over two academic years) for students early in undergraduate study (first-year for a 3-year law degree; second-year for a 4-year law degree; or penultimate year non-law students).

  • Purpose: To offer insight into a career in commercial law, build skills (commercial awareness, legal knowledge, etc.), give exposure to the firm, and provide a route that may lead to a Training Contract interview.

  • Components: Includes classroom learning, workshops, work shadowing, networking, community and pro bono elements, skills training. Some parts are paid (£500 per week) for certain weeks.

  • Outcomes: If you successfully complete SPARK, you may be invited to interview for a Training Contract.

Click here for more information about SPARK

London Training Contract

  • Length & structure: Two years of formal training (seated in different practice areas) in London. Split into 4 six-month rotations (including a seat in Global Financial Markets). There are also opportunities for international or client secondments.

  • Eligibility and Qualifications: Open to penultimate-year law students, final-year law students and non-law students and graduates (with at least expected or achieved 2:1 or above). Includes preparation for the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Exam) and/or conversion courses for non-law graduates (e.g. PGDL). All future trainees are required to complete SQE1 & SQE2, even if previously did LPC.

  • Support & learning: Induction programme, development meetings, mentors and partner sponsors, academy training, resilience and wellbeing support.

  • Benefits & pay: First year trainees salary listed (£56,000 in London), plus benefits (health, pensions, etc.) and opportunities to get exposure to high profile work.

Click here for more information about the London Training Contract

Middle East Summer Vacation Scheme

  • Length & structure: Two-week and three day Vacation Scheme. Supported by a supervising associate and trainee ‘buddy‘ to guide you. Many opportunities for networking with Clifford Chance employees in the Middle East offices.

  • Eligibility and Qualifications: Open to penultimate-year law students, final-year law students and non-law students and graduates (with at least expected or achieved 2:1 or above). Includes preparation for the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Exam) and/or conversion courses for non-law graduates (e.g. PGDL). All future trainees are required to complete SQE1 & SQE2, even if previously did LPC.

  • Support & Learning: Supported by a supervising associate who will set tasks, provide feedback and provide insight into their experience and career. Your trainee buddy will guide you through tasks and answer questions.

  • Benefits & pay: You will be paid AED 3,250 for the Scheme and where applicable, flights and accommodation may be covered. The scheme can lead to a Middle East Training Contract interview.

Click here for more information about the Middle East Vacation Scheme

Middle East Training Contract

  • Length & structure: Two years of formal training (seated in different practice areas). Split into 4 six-month rotations (the first in London and three in the Middle East offices). Seat choices include Corporate, Global Financial Markets, Real Estate & Construction, Projects, and Litigation & Dispute Resolution. There are also opportunities for client secondments.

  • Eligibility and Qualifications: Open to penultimate-year law students, final-year law students and non-law students and graduates (with at least expected or achieved 2:1 or above). Includes preparation for the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Exam) and/or conversion courses for non-law graduates (e.g. PGDL). All future trainees are required to complete SQE1 & SQE2, even if previously did LPC.

  • Support & Learning: Includes specialised training and a dedicated supervisor for each seat. Support from Early Talent Development team, your Supervisor, Resource Manager, and your Monitoring Partner who provide mentorship and advice. Access to Clifford Chance Academy.

  • Benefits & pay: First year trainees salary listed (340,000 AED) and opportunities to gain insight into high-profile clients.

Click here for more information about the Middle East Training Contract