Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer—known simply as Freshfields—is one of the most prestigious law firms in the world and a key member of the Magic Circle. With a rich history, elite international client base, and complex cross-border work, the firm attracts top-tier candidates from across the globe. Competition for training contracts is intense, but with the right preparation, you can stand out and succeed.
1. What Freshfields Looks For
Freshfields is looking for more than academic excellence. The firm wants candidates who are:
- Highly analytical and commercially aware
- Calm under pressure and resilient in demanding environments
- Strong communicators with interpersonal intelligence
- Comfortable with international, fast-paced work
- Team-oriented with the ability to build trust quickly
The application process is designed to assess how well you align with the firm’s collaborative, high-performing culture.
2. Get the Basics Right in Your Application
Your application form is your first opportunity to demonstrate focus, professionalism, and insight. Tailoring is essential—Freshfields expects a clear understanding of what makes the firm different.
Tips for a standout application:
- Avoid vague statements—use evidence and examples to support every claim
- Show you understand Freshfields’ core practice areas and client work
- Clearly articulate your motivation for choosing Freshfields specifically
- Demonstrate how your experiences reflect the qualities the firm values
Make sure your writing is precise, structured, and error-free.
3. Prepare for the Online Assessment
Shortlisted candidates are invited to complete the Freshfields online assessment, which typically includes:
- Situational judgement questions
- A written exercise
- Critical thinking and logic-based tasks
To prepare:
- Practise timed assessments with realistic test platforms
- Hone your ability to analyse information under time pressure
- Focus on clarity, structure, and tone in your written responses
This is your chance to show how you think, communicate, and make decisions.
4. Succeed at the Interview Stage
Candidates who progress are invited to attend a partner interview and written case study. This stage is about demonstrating how you think, how you work with others, and how you present ideas.
To perform well:
- Stay up to date on commercial and legal news
- Practise discussing complex topics with clarity and structure
- Reflect on experiences where you’ve had to think critically or work in challenging situations
- Be ready for behavioural questions and hypothetical scenarios
Freshfields interviews are demanding but fair—they’re assessing potential, not perfection.
5. Understand the Firm’s Global Mindset
Freshfields’ client base is international, and its lawyers regularly collaborate across jurisdictions. The firm values candidates who:
- Can adapt quickly in unfamiliar situations
- Have experience working with people from diverse backgrounds
- Understand how global businesses operate and evolve
- Are open to international secondments and cross-border matters
Make sure your application highlights any international or collaborative experience that shows flexibility and global awareness.
6. Engage Early Where Possible
Freshfields offers insight programmes and vacation schemes that allow students to experience the firm’s culture and work first-hand. If you’re eligible, these are an excellent way to learn and demonstrate commitment to the firm.
However, even without formal programmes, you can succeed with a strong, well-prepared application that highlights your genuine interest and relevant capabilities.
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
At LawGrad Launch, we provide personalised application support to law graduates aiming for top-tier firms like Freshfields. From crafting compelling applications and CVs to preparing for assessments and interviews, we’ll help you navigate the entire process with clarity and confidence.
Get expert, one-to-one coaching designed to help you secure interviews, succeed in assessments, and launch your legal career with confidence.