Hong Kong Careers
Trainees
Every year we have places for graduates wishing to enter into a two year training contract. We welcome applications from undergraduates and postgraduates. Our aim is that our trainees stay with us on qualification and pursue their careers at Slaughter and May.
To thrive in our environment and to take full advantage of the opportunities available to you, you will need to demonstrate intellect, enthusiasm, commitment and an ability to get on well with our clients and others. Above all we are looking for people with common sense and a willingness to accept responsibility.
Our work is intellectually demanding. The minimum standard we are looking for is the equivalent of three strong grades at A-level and the equivalent of a first degree of good 2:1 standard or better - or other equivalent qualifications. We also require appropriate references from an academic referee and another person who knows you.
Before joining us as a trainee you will either have a law degree or have passed the Common Professional Examination (CPE) or Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). In addition, you will have passed the Postgraduate Certificate of Laws (PCLL).
While participating in our vacation schemes is not a prerequisite to applying for a training contract, many of our trainees have participated in our vacation schemes prior to applying for a training contract. If you are interested in applying for a training contract with us in the future, we strongly recommend that you also apply to our vacation scheme as this allows you to experience what life is like at Slaughter and May.
Our current policy is to pay our prospective trainees' course tuition fees (in addition to a maintenance allowance) for the PCLL course in Hong Kong. This assistance is, of course, provided on the basis that prospective trainees join us after passing the PCLL course and complete the training contract with us.
Vacation schemes and open days
We run vacation schemes in the Hong Kong office during the summer vacation (and sometimes during the winter and Easter vacations) for law and non-law students considering law as a career and who have completed at least one year of a first degree course.
The principal aim of our vacation schemes is to give you an opportunity to experience the work and day to day life of a young lawyer. During your time with us, you will work with associates and trainees involved in corporate, commercial and financing transactions. In addition, we organise a programme of training, including seminars and presentations, and social events.
We accept applications throughout the year and offer places as we receive applications. Therefore, we encourage applications to be submitted as early as possible.
We also hold a number of open days during the year and for those who are not able to join one of our vacation schemes; attending an open day will give you an excellent insight into the firm.