Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) is a leading international law firm, known for its exceptional disputes practice and global transactional strength. With offices across EMEA, Asia Pacific, and the US, it offers trainees the opportunity to work on complex, cross-border matters from the outset. The firm blends City-level intensity with a strong commitment to development, inclusion, and collaboration.
If you’re hoping to land a training contract at HSF, here’s what you need to know to prepare and impress.
1. What Herbert Smith Freehills Looks For
HSF seeks trainees who combine academic strength with commercial savvy, resilience, and curiosity. While legal knowledge matters, the firm also values those who think broadly and engage with the real-world impact of law.
Key attributes they look for:
- Strong academics (typically a 2:1 or above; high A-levels or equivalent)
- Critical thinking and intellectual flexibility
- An interest in international work and collaboration
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Self-awareness, humility, and emotional intelligence
The ideal candidate is more than just technically excellent—they’re grounded, adaptable, and globally minded.
2. Tailor Your Application to HSF’s Practice and Culture
HSF expects more than just polished grammar and a strong CV—they want evidence of a genuine interest in the firm and a deep understanding of their work.
To write a compelling application:
- Reference HSF’s strengths in litigation, arbitration, energy, and financial services
- Show why the firm’s international footprint and sector focus appeal to you
- Reflect the firm’s values: innovation, respect, inclusion, and curiosity
- Use precise, well-structured language—clarity is crucial
- Avoid clichés and focus on what’s specific to you and them
Demonstrate that you’ve done more than just read the website—you’ve thought deeply about how you’d thrive at HSF.
3. Prepare for the Online Assessments
If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited to complete online tests, which may include:
- Situational judgment questions
- Critical reasoning or verbal reasoning tests
- A video interview with pre-recorded answers
Top tips:
- Practise SJT and verbal reasoning questions beforehand
- Keep answers to video questions structured and professional
- Use real examples that demonstrate your teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience
- Avoid memorised scripts—aim for natural delivery
Video interviews can feel awkward—but preparation helps reduce nerves and improve flow.
4. Perform at the Assessment Centre
HSF’s assessment centre typically includes:
- A case study or written exercise
- A partner or senior associate interview
- A group task or commercial exercise
- A chance to meet current trainees or associates
To succeed:
- Show how you analyse problems and communicate under pressure
- Be confident but collaborative—don’t dominate group discussions
- Back up opinions with evidence and logical reasoning
- Show curiosity and ask thoughtful questions
HSF is looking for your potential—not perfection. Let your approach speak for itself.
5. Think Globally and Commercially
As a global firm, HSF values candidates who understand the intersection of law, business, and international affairs. Whether you’re looking to specialise in disputes, energy, or finance, you’ll need to demonstrate commercial insight and an outward-looking mindset.
To stand out:
- Read financial and legal news regularly
- Be ready to discuss recent international developments or legal trends
- Understand how HSF operates across jurisdictions and industries
- Talk about experiences (academic or personal) that shaped your global perspective
HSF is a firm for the curious and committed—show that you’re ready to grow.
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
Herbert Smith Freehills attracts exceptional applicants—so it’s essential to submit a clear, thoughtful, and tailored application. At LawGrad Launch, we help you build standout applications, prepare for video interviews, and develop the confidence and clarity to perform at your best in assessment centres.
We offer tailored, one-to-one coaching to help you succeed at every stage of your legal career journey. Get expert guidance that’s built around your goals.