Baker & McKenzie Training Contract Application Model Answer

[address line 1]

London

E16 4PE

[date]

Baker & McKenzie LLP

100 New Bridge Street

London

EC4V 6JA

Dear Graduate Recruitment & Development,

I have completed a law degree at the [University] with an upper [grade] class degree. I am applying for a training contract to commence in [year] advertised on Latestlawjobs.com.

I am interested in corporate and commercial law because it will allow me to assume the role of a project manager and will afford me early responsibility. Given that commercial law is both transactional and ongoing, it is clear that I will have to build a rapport with the client and apply strong communication skills coupled with high technical ability when forming a clear picture of the client’s needs and objectives and then explaining what may well be a complex area of law when advising on the best solution. This may require me to liaise with a number of legal departments thus making each day a unique, enjoyable and fulfilling work experience.

I am very much exhilarated by the chance to be seconded to an international office as it will provide me with a means to acquire industry specific knowledge as well as with an opportunity to impress the clients through my convivial and professional characteristics. Last summer, I especially enjoyed working with [language] and Kazakh clients whilst doing a work placement with [law firm]. Following the acquisition of certain skills, my ambition would be to form a part of the matrix of expertise which will be an effective gateway to my participation in cross-jurisdictional deals. This would serve as a steppingstone to my ambition to become a successful international lawyer.

I am attracted by the relatively small intake of trainees which I feel will offer me bespoke training that is individually tailored to my interests, experience and aptitude. Small teams also suggest that I will have increased responsibility and operate as a lawyer from day one in an informal and collegial working environment. More importantly, I will receive the excitement and challenge of working on high value, complex transactions and disputes, in the size of office where everyone knows who you are. For me this will mean getting involved in real work from the start whereby I will be able to add something to the cases I work on. This environment will unquestionably foster my professional and personal growth in my capacity as a lawyer.

Unlike other firms, Baker & McKenzie LLP provides a ‘Keep in Touch’ programme. The buddy scheme would allow me to feel a part of the firm from day one. This closely feeds into the open-door policy which will allow me to approach partners and associates whenever I have a quick question be it on a procedure or drafting, a query about technical law or informal advice.

I am also very much attracted by the training prospects at Baker & McKenzie LLP. I feel that the formal, award-winning training structure will ensure that nothing is omitted in my training process and that I learn everything in a progressive and incremental manner.

Having worked for a number of private clients at leading legal firms, [law firm] and [law firm], I can attest to the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships. This, coupled with my fluency in [language], English and [language], would make me a valuable asset when working on cross-border transactions or with international clients.

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours sincerely,