Meet William

William studied Law at the University of Durham and joined the firm as a trainee in March 2026.

Why did you apply to Slaughter and May?

I originally applied for the summer work experience scheme in my second year, which was inspired by an event I attended at university hosted by the firm. I was fortunate enough to receive an offer for the scheme, during which I had my training contract interview. The scheme affirmed the reason I originally applied to the firm – a dedication to the highest quality training, with everyone across the firm being truly invested in the development of its people. 

How did you find the application process?

I liked the straightforward nature of the application process. Writing a CV and cover letter, followed by an interview, made it feel as though the firm was genuinely interested in getting to know me. Although the training contract interview process was challenging; the discussion around a pre-provided article was engaging and felt natural and conversational. 

What’s a typical day like as a trainee solicitor in your current seat? 

I am currently sitting in our Technology, Digital, Data and IP (TDDI) group, and the breadth of work has been a highlight of the seat. The work covers everything from IP and IT elements of matters, to contentious IP disputes, cybersecurity advice, and emerging technology / digital regulation - so there really is no “typical” day. I have found myself having to learn about rapidly developing industries, and equally rapidly evolving regulations which are trying to keep pace. One week I may spend many hours delving into research regarding the development of Agentic AI and the likely effect this will have on the legal landscape, the next I will be conducting IP/IT due diligence on a cross-border M&A transaction, whilst in the meantime being across an ongoing IP dispute.

In terms of responsibility, I have been trusted with substantive tasks almost immediately. I have drafted response letters in contentious matters, drafted due diligence questions and sections of due diligence reports on live M&A transactions, and researched novel regulatory questions where there is not necessarily a clear answer. 

Being a trainee can involve working longer hours, particularly when deadlines are imminent. However, the team has always sought to give me advance notice where longer hours will likely be required and are equally good at flagging when a task is not one to stay late on – which is always appreciated! There is a genuine culture of recognising effort, and that sense of collaboration is a real strength of the firm.

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy the variety of the work and the fact it is intellectually stimulating. It has been a steep learning curve since starting in March, but I have constantly found myself to be intrigued by new matters which are always very different. The team have also been fantastic - is real pleasure to be surrounded by brilliant lawyers who are dedicated to their work and equally committed to helping you develop as a trainee solicitor.

Aside from the work, I enjoy the broader culture of the firm, which is always presenting opportunities to meet colleagues and engage in different activities. The firm employee networks are an excellent way to connect with others, and we have had several social activities both as a group and for trainees across the firm. A particular highlight was the TDDI darts social!

What has been your most memorable experience so far during your training contract?

One of the most memorable experiences so far was being involved in the firm’s response to a live client cyber breach. Working on something urgent and high stakes, where the advice you are helping to prepare has immediate consequences, demonstrated how crucial the role we play as trusted advisors can be.