Summer Intern Review

We did two placements each 1.5 weeks in two practice groups. Each day was different, as our supervisor would assign us tasks, lets us shadow them in their internal and client meetings. I did a mix of types of tasks, some fed directly into active client matters, while others were more background tasks like desktop research, business development or internal memos/briefs.

Everyone was really helpful and happy to discuss their role and their journey into law, at all levels. Trainees and Associates were also very present and helpful, giving us tips for the traineeship, were we lucky enough to get an offer. As DLA has sector expertise, lots of people gave insights on how they became that point person in the firm and, as a career switcher, I found that particularly insightful.

I feel that everyday I learned a new skill or developed an existing one. This happened organically as the supervisors were excellent in keeping us busy and learning. Either by doing tasks myself and getting feedback on them, or by observing how the lawyers go about their client matters, it has been a very intellectually stimulating environment.

Everyone was very friendly, even at busy times. It is undoubted that when client matters are busy some people can't make time for a team lunch and that's something that varied in culture across the teams - but I nevertheless found people happy to chat informally, including partners.

I had a fantastic time, and felt like each day I came home with something I did not have the day before. Whether it was a key insight on soft skills and how to handle a tough client, or practice core legal skills of proofreading, drafting etc. I am very satisfied with the variety of tasks I completed.

Yes

Don't be afraid when you're here of reaching out to people, everyone is very friendly. DLA values commercial awareness more than you knowing the law inside out, and in fact, there are lots of non-law and career switchers. Say what you are interested in and if you do have an area of expertise you've already cultivated then show it to your team, and it will be appreciated.