The Real Contract: What can a trainee really expect from a Clifford Chance training contract?

Mar 09, 2023

Written By Helena Kudiabor

Securing a training contract is an incredible achievement. In addition to the legal knowledge and skills you’ll gain, personal development and growth is a key part of the experience. To gain a real, unfiltered account of what a training contract at a leading law firm is like, Clifford Chance asked seven of their solicitors (from trainee to partner) to write a letter to their past selves reflecting on their legal journey so far. We have picked out some important passages from these seven letters to help you better understand what each one means for the trainee experience at Clifford Chance.

Connect with others…

“Clifford Chance is about its people. You are in it together with those who you start with on day one. You are in it together with your team and colleagues from around the firm, around the world who will become your friends. Even in the hardest moments they will be there for you. Every step of the way. To provide you with support and advice and to give you confidence” - John MacLennan, Partner

John’s experience highlights the importance of teamwork and peer support. It’s important to build strong relationships with the people you work alongside, as they’ll be on hand to support and encourage you and vice-versa. No matter if someone’s in your team or not, or whether they’re a fellow trainee or a partner, it’s a good idea to strike up a conversation or send them an email. You might form a long-lasting connection. Often trainees feel nervous about reaching out to senior lawyers. However, as a partner, John thoroughly enjoys mentoring the new generation, and giving them opportunities to gain new responsibilities and rise to challenges.

Believe in yourself…

“You might not even realise how far you have come but all of a sudden you will be the chairperson of the Trainee Committee, representing the entire trainee cohort and speaking in front of Partners regularly, and about to go on international secondment to the Sydney office for 6 months. You will learn to have faith in yourself and your abilities. Take every opportunity that comes your way as a chance to grow even more as a lawyer and as an individual.” - Lucy Johnson, 3rd seat trainee

It can be easy to doubt your skills and experience as a trainee, especially if you compare yourself to other trainees or senior lawyers. However, it’s important to remember that even the most successful partners started out just like you, and probably struggled with self-doubt. The firm wouldn’t have given you a training contract if they didn’t believe in your abilities, so you’re more than good enough for your position. Remember how valuable your unique perspective is and use that to your advantage by getting involved in as much as you can, from joining committees to completing international or client secondments.

Stay consistent…

“But if you keep pushing through the tough moments and take it day by day. If you force yourself to be consistent. Up at 6am, every morning. No excuses. Set the necessary boundaries and make use of the support around you. You will continue to see the fruits of your labour, you will get there. And you will accomplish things that you didn’t even know you were capable of.” - Emmanuel Goriola, 3rd seat trainee

It’s no secret that a training contract can be challenging: working hours can be long, you may have to miss events due to work commitments. While waking up at 6am each day isn’t for everyone, think about ways you yourself can set boundaries, and be more consistent with your daily routine. Although there will be moments where you’ll feel overwhelmed, there will be just as many moments where you’ll feel fulfilled and happy with where you are.

Trust yourself…

“You don’t know whether you would fit in an all-English environment, being one of a handful of first-generation Chinese trainees, and you’re uncertain about where your Training Contract will ultimately take you... But you should know this contract is more than just a job – your horizon will be expanded beyond what you could ever have imagined.” - Maggie Zhao, Partner

It’s common for future trainees to feel nervous about whether they’ll fit in, particularly if they come from a group underrepresented in law. However, it’s important to trust yourself, and have confidence in your abilities. Clifford Chance offers exciting new opportunities and numerous avenues of support, so it’s all about making the most of them. Don’t worry about making mistakes, it’s not a reflection of your weaknesses, but rather a reflection of the fact that you’re learning and growing. Maggie remembers making more mistakes than she can count as a trainee, but now sees them as important vehicles in her personal and professional development.

Challenge the status quo…

“You’re in a place where your view of the world will be challenged. You will be challenged. If you witness something that doesn’t seem right, do not assume that it will all work out somehow. Always remember, you have a voice to push back, speak up and be heard.” - Kikun Alo, Senior Associate

Although it can be difficult to find the confidence to speak up, remember personal growth is a core part of the training contract experience. Senior lawyers would love to hear your ideas, so speak up for the things you believe in. Don’t be afraid to share if you think a situation could be handled differently, and speak to your co-workers if you have an idea you think would benefit the firm (remember the importance of connections!). During her career, Kikun has taken numerous opportunities to support causes she cares about, so you never know what could happen.

We are all human…

“These seats are filled with people that have your back. It is like having an army behind you when you listen to it – think of all those who support you every day. They want to see you succeed and grow. Your colleagues, your clients, the ‘other side’ – they are people too, we are all human. Be yourself and be a person first and foremost, you’re a person before you’re a lawyer and always be true to that.” - Christopher Sullivan, Partner and Head of London Private Equity Team

One of the best things about a training contract is the people that you’ll meet and work alongside. While it’s easy to feel nervous when interacting with senior lawyers and clients (especially at such an accomplished firm), remember that they are human just like you, with the same fears and dreams. Even the most accomplished partners started out as trainees.

Given the amount of people you interact with as a trainee, people skills are key to succeed. Remain friendly and approachable, and be sure to communicate issues as and when they arise. A training contract can be stressful so remember to check in on your co-workers, they’ll be sure to do the same in return.

Continue to persevere…

“Are you sure you want to do this long term? A question you will ask yourself numerous times in the midst of the challenges. But you’ve never shied away from a challenge if you push through this, if you persevere, if you learn to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. And ask for help when you need it. With dedication you will grow and reap the results. These challenges will shape the person you become. Because today you’re unrecognisable to who you were” - Hephzibah Adeosun, Associate

The long hours and late nights that make up much of a training contract can make you doubt yourself, and question whether you’re cut out for a legal career. However, each time you pick yourself up and keep going is a testament to your strength, and your suitability and passion for your job. A training contract at Clifford Chance allows you to flourish under the unique bond between trainees and supervisors, so don’t feel like you have to struggle alone. Keep persevering: you’ll learn so much about yourself and experience immense personal growth.

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