Trainee JACK DAVIES Graduate in Law with German Law, University College London
“I went from maths and science ‘A’ levels to a degree in law and German law, then worked at an investment bank. That role was too compartmentalised for me, whereas being a trainee at Kirkland & Ellis is giving me a broad exposure to business and the law.”
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I researched a lot of the US firms when I was applying for Training Contracts, knowing I wanted to be part of a small group of trainees compared to the big intakes of magic circle firms. I was looking for the opportunity to carve out a role with a firm offering bespoke, on the job training, rather than formulaic university style teaching. I was immediately interested in Kirkland & Ellis based on the reading I did but applied to the Vacation Scheme to make sure what they said was true. It was the best Vacation Scheme I took part in because I found out what it’s like to be a lawyer and what I’d be doing each day as a trainee. Also, everyone helps you to get to know the culture of the firm, so you can decide whether you’ll fit in.
within weeks I was working on increasingly complex matters. Each week after that I was doing more, leading calls, working with partners, getting exposure to clients – essentially learning on the job. Associates and partners help you to keep progressing, tell you when you’re doing quality work and give you the support when you need it. Private equity work means you experience a broad range of industries and that keeps it really interesting. The calibre of clients also keeps you on your toes. You become commercially aware, learn not to overthink the basic tasks and distil things down to the important points, vital when you’re working with people who are really busy. You’re encouraged to ask questions and you have access to everyone. The door is genuinely always open but more than that, the culture is non-hierarchical and inclusive.
On day one of the Training Contract I was involved in basic legal tasks and
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