An illuminating day at Norton Rose Fulbright

I attended a Law Open day at Norton Rose Fulbright’s London office on Thursday 10th April. As someone who is interested in a future career in law, this event was a tremendous opportunity for me to gain an insight into what the role of a corporate lawyer entails and the culture of Norton Rose Fulbright. It was also very interesting to meet other students from around the country who are in a similar position.

During the morning session, we had the chance to speak to people in the firm who were at different developmental stages of their careers. A partner of the firm gave us an introduction to the firm itself, telling us all about what law they specialise in and who their clients are for example. He initially studied French and then converted to a law degree. Therefore, he was able to speak about the process that I would have to go through to become a lawyer.

We also had the opportunity to speak in small groups to associates and current trainees. They were able to tell us more about the year as a trainee. They have to take up seats in the key areas of: corporate, banking and finance, dispute resolution and litigation. In the fourth seat, trainees have the opportunity to go abroad and spend time in one of Norton Rose Fulbright’s offices. Before lunch, a member of the recruitment team gave us advice on the application process for vacation schemes. This was very informative as we received invaluable information which could help us to have a successful application in the future.

After a tour of the office and lunch, I took part in a negotiating exercise. This is a prominent skill which corporate lawyers use on a daily basis. Firstly, we received advice from a member of their training team and then we took part in a negotiation exercise about licensing agreements. With other students, we had to come to an agreement which benefited the licensor or the licensee depending on who we were meant to be. From this, I learnt important negotiation skills and strategies which will help me in any part of future life.

I found this open day to be an illuminating and beneficial experience. I gained first-hand knowledge of what life at an international, corporate law firm is like. This can only aid me in deciding whether the legal profession will be my chosen career path.

Alexander (1st year Russian Studies student)

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