Kickstarting Your Legal Career at Bird & Bird
Securing a training contract is the crucial first step for aspiring solicitors, and the firm you choose will shape your career. If you are considering Bird & Bird, you are aiming for one of the UK’s most innovative international law firms. Known for its expertise in technology, intellectual property, and fast-moving sectors, Bird & Bird offers trainees the opportunity to work on cutting-edge legal issues for some of the world’s most dynamic businesses.
This guide explores what makes Bird & Bird distinctive, what the firm looks for in trainees, how the application process works, and how you can maximise your chances of securing a training contract.
About Bird & Bird
Bird & Bird is an international law firm with more than 30 offices worldwide, including London, Manchester, and Dublin. It is particularly renowned for its work with clients in sectors driven by innovation, such as:
- Technology and Communications
- Intellectual Property
- Life Sciences and Healthcare
- Media and Entertainment
- Energy and Utilities
- Financial Services
The firm has a reputation for being forward-thinking and client-focused, offering legal solutions that keep pace with technological and regulatory change. For trainees, this means exposure to high-profile, intellectually stimulating work across industries that are constantly evolving.
Why Apply for a Training Contract at Bird & Bird?
There are several reasons why Bird & Bird is a popular destination for trainees:
- Sector expertise – The firm is especially strong in technology and IP, making it ideal for those with an interest in innovation.
- International opportunities – With a global network, trainees may work on cross-border matters or take overseas secondments.
- Innovative clients – From start-ups to global corporations, Bird & Bird works with some of the most exciting businesses.
- Collaborative culture – The firm is known for its supportive, inclusive, and approachable environment.
- Diverse practice areas – Trainees rotate through different seats across commercial, contentious, and transactional departments.
What the Firm Looks For
Competition is fierce, and Bird & Bird looks for candidates who combine academic ability with the personal qualities to thrive in a client-driven, international environment.
Key attributes include:
- Strong academics – A 2:1 degree or higher is usually required.
- Commercial awareness – Understanding how innovation, regulation, and global events affect clients.
- Interest in technology and IP – A genuine enthusiasm for working in these sectors is highly valued.
- Communication skills – Clear, professional, and persuasive communication with clients and colleagues.
- Teamwork – Collaboration is central to the firm’s culture.
- Adaptability – The ability to handle fast-changing industries and challenging workloads.
The Application Process
1. Online Application
The process begins with an online form where you’ll provide details of your academics, work experience, and motivation for applying.
Tips:
- Tailor your answers to Bird & Bird’s specialisms in technology and IP.
- Avoid generic responses; explain why you want to work at this firm.
- Show evidence of resilience, teamwork, and client focus.
2. Online Tests
Applicants may need to complete online assessments, such as situational judgement or reasoning tests.
Tips:
- Practise online tests before applying.
- Work under timed conditions to build confidence.
3. Video Interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a video interview, with pre-recorded questions.
Tips:
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
- Show enthusiasm for Bird & Bird’s sectors, particularly technology, IP, or life sciences.
- Keep answers clear, concise, and client-focused.
4. Assessment Centre
Successful candidates are invited to an assessment day, which typically includes:
- Group exercises to test teamwork and collaboration.
- Written case studies to assess analysis and clarity.
- Partner interviews exploring motivation, competencies, and commercial awareness.
Tips:
- Contribute constructively in group tasks, but listen actively to others.
- Structure your case study answers logically, linking back to client needs.
- Be ready to discuss industry issues, such as data protection, AI, or energy transition.
5. Vacation Scheme Route
Like many firms, Bird & Bird recruits a significant number of trainees through its vacation schemes. Performing well on these placements is one of the most effective ways to secure a training contract.
What to Expect as a Trainee
A training contract at Bird & Bird lasts two years, with four six-month seats across different departments. Typical seats include:
- Intellectual Property – handling IP disputes, patents, and licensing.
- Technology and Communications – advising clients on contracts, data, and regulatory matters.
- Corporate and Commercial – working on mergers, acquisitions, and commercial contracts.
- Dispute Resolution – handling litigation and arbitration.
- Employment – advising on workforce management and disputes.
- Real Estate or Finance – supporting transactions and investments.
Trainees benefit from:
- Early responsibility – meaningful client work from the outset.
- International exposure – opportunities for secondments abroad.
- Structured learning – technical training alongside professional development workshops.
- Close supervision – regular feedback from partners and associates.
How to Stand Out
To secure a training contract at Bird & Bird, you’ll need to demonstrate more than academic strength. Here are key ways to differentiate yourself:
- Research the firm thoroughly – Read about Bird & Bird’s recent work in tech, IP, and life sciences.
- Show sector interest – Demonstrate enthusiasm for industries like technology, media, or healthcare.
- Demonstrate commercial awareness – Be ready to discuss how regulation, innovation, or global trends impact clients.
- Highlight adaptability – Use examples of managing change, deadlines, or complex projects.
- Be authentic – The firm values approachable, personable trainees who can build lasting client relationships.
Example Interview Questions
- Why do you want to train at Bird & Bird?
- Which of our sectors interests you most, and why?
- Tell us about a time you worked effectively in a team.
- How do you think technology is changing the legal profession?
- What challenges do our clients in data protection or intellectual property face today?
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
At LawGrad Launch, we understand how competitive it is to secure a training contract at international firms like Bird & Bird. With thousands of applicants for each intake, you need more than strong grades — you need strategy, preparation, and confidence.
We provide tailored support, including:
- Application coaching – Crafting persuasive, tailored applications that align with Bird & Bird’s values.
- Commercial awareness development – Helping you understand how innovation affects clients.
- Assessment centre preparation – Practising group exercises, case studies, and written tasks with feedback.
- Interview coaching – Building confidence to deliver clear, structured, and authentic answers.
We’ve helped law students secure training contracts at top firms — and we can help you too.
Final Thoughts
Bird & Bird offers an exceptional training contract for aspiring solicitors who want to work at the cutting edge of law and technology. With its international reach, sector expertise, and collaborative culture, the firm provides a dynamic environment to launch your legal career.
To succeed, you’ll need to demonstrate academic ability, commercial awareness, and a genuine enthusiasm for industries shaped by innovation. By tailoring your application, preparing thoroughly for assessments, and showing authenticity in interviews, you can put yourself in the strongest position to secure a training contract.
At LawGrad Launch, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — from applications and assessments to interviews and beyond.
Get in touch with us today and let us help you secure your training contract at Bird & Bird.