Name of graduate scheme: Dentons Training Contract
University attended: University of Sheffield and then BPP University for the LPC and SQE prep.
Degree qualification and year of graduation: Law and Criminology LLB, 2020
What is your role, when did you join the firm?
I joined Dentons in 2021 as a paralegal in the Corporate and Commercial team in the Legal Delivery Centre, where I worked for two years before taking time away to complete the SQE and travel. I started my training contract in September 2025, completing my first seat in Pensions, and I'm now in the Corporate team.
What inspired you to apply to this law firm?
I was initially attracted to Dentons because of its global nature and the breadth of work across different practice areas. Once I joined as a paralegal, I was able to see first-hand the firm’s collaborative culture and the opportunities to develop and take on responsibility. Working closely with colleagues across the firm on high-quality work confirmed that Dentons was somewhere I could see myself building my career.
What does a typical work day look like?
One of the things I enjoy most about being a trainee is the huge variety of work. In Corporate, I have gained experience across M&A, equity capital markets and investment funds, so my day can look very different depending on the matters I am supporting. I might be reviewing or drafting documents, coordinating due diligence input from colleagues across different jurisdictions or helping to manage the administrative side of a transaction.
What are your working hours like?
Working hours can vary depending on both the seat and the matters you are supporting. I usually start between 8.30 and 9.30am. We are expected to be online by 9.30am, but sometimes I prefer to start earlier to get things off my desk before the day gets busier.
In Corporate, my hours are often dictated by the pace and deadlines of a transaction. There can be busier periods in the lead-up to signing or completion, but overall, I have found the hours manageable.
What is the single most important thing you have learned so far as a trainee?
The most important thing I've learned is the value of being proactive. As a trainee, you aren't expected to know everything, but you are expected to take ownership of your work and ask questions when something is unclear. I've found that understanding how my task fits into the wider matter helps me anticipate what the team may need and take on more responsibility.
What are your top tips for someone applying to this law firm?
Take the time to understand what makes the firm different and why those things matter to you. Rather than saying you want to work for an international firm, explain what it is about Dentons' international platform, culture or the type of work that appeals to you.
I'd also say don't try to be the person you think the firm wants you to be. Be honest about your interests, motivations and experiences, as they're what make your application stand out.
What's the best piece of work you've been involved in?
The best piece of work I've been involved in so far has been supporting on an IPO taking place on multiple stock exchanges across different jurisdictions. It has involved working with teams across the world to ensure that each prospectus complies with the legal and regulatory requirements of its own jurisdiction, while remaining as consistent as possible across the wider transaction.
Are you involved with any of the Firm's networks?
Yes, I'm a member of Dentons' AccessAbility Network, Neurodiversity Network and Social Mobility Network. I enjoy getting involved in initiatives that help create a more inclusive workplace and provide opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the firm. Being involved in these groups has allowed me to build relationships outside my immediate team and contribute to the wider firm community.
What makes this law firm a great place to work?
For me, it's the variety of work, which gives you exposure to different areas of law, teams, clients and jurisdictions early on in your career. It's a great environment to find what you enjoy while building a broad skillset before deciding where you want to qualify. The people here also make a real difference; everyone is approachable and willing to answer questions to help you learn.
What are the most important qualities you need to be a lawyer?
Being a lawyer is about more than technical legal knowledge. Organisation, commercial awareness and clear communication are essential, but so is the ability to build trust with colleagues and clients. Clients value lawyers who are approachable and able to explain complex issues in a practical way, while colleagues appreciate someone who is reliable and a good team player.
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