James Wood

I joined the firm's tax department on qualification. I was attracted to Slaughter and May because of its outstanding reputation in the market and the opportunity to do high quality, high-profile work for top clients. The interview process was straightforward and relaxed - there were two interviews, the first of which had more of a technical slant, and the second of which was an informal chat with four partners, which allowed us to get to know each other a little bit better.

Although I work in a specialist department, the firm’s multi-specialist approach really appealed to me; the ethos of creating all-round lawyers really shines through in everything the firm does and in everyone who works here.  I am enjoying the huge variety of work to which I am now being exposed - every day really is different and brings its own new challenges. I also get to work with lawyers across all departments, making it easy to meet people.

The people here are intelligent, highly motivated and enquiring. There is a very supportive culture and everyone is willing to give up their time to help you. The lack of billing targets amplifies this culture because people always feel able to take the time to help out others. Moreover, you have time to read about and discuss new areas of law with your colleagues as you come across them - and there will always be someone in your team who has some experience on the topic in question. This approach not only enables you to give clients the best possible advice, but also helps you to develop as a lawyer.