Do I have to attend the Open Day to be considered for the summer vacation scheme?
Yes. The Open Day is part of the firm’s recruiting process for summer vacation scheme students and it is therefore essential that you are able to attend the Open Day.

Can I apply for the summer vacation scheme if I am already working, having finished my GDL and LPC?
Yes, the firm will consider any application as long as you meet the necessary academic entry requirements (at least a 2(i) in any degree discipline and a minimum of 360 UCAS points at A-level (or equivalent)).

Do I have to complete an online application form, or can I submit a CV and covering letter?
The firm will only consider applications that have been submitted through the online application form.

Do I need to complete a vacation scheme before applying for a training contract?
As the firm recruits all of its trainees from the pool of candidates who attend the vacation schemes, you are encouraged to apply for a place on our open days in order to secure a vacation scheme placement.

Will I have the opportunity to work in more than one practice area?
Yes. You will be assigned a mentor with whom you will work. However, there will be other opportunities during the two weeks for you to work in other practice groups.

Do you offer work experience?
In London, the firm runs spring and summer vacation schemes for undergraduate students who are studying law or non-law degrees at UK universities. The firm does not generally offer any form of work experience outside the vacation scheme. For more information on the vacation scheme, including when and how to apply, please see the vacation scheme section of the website.

Do I need to complete a vacation scheme before applying for a training contract?
The firm hires all of its Trainees from the vacation scheme, therefore in order to be considered for a Trainee position you would have to complete one of our vacation schemes.

Do I have to complete an online application form or can I submit a CV and cover letter?
The firm will only consider applications that have been submitted through the online application form.

Do you accept applications from candidates who need a work permit?
Yes, but any offer will depend on the firm successfully obtaining a work permit for you. If you are successful in securing a training contract, Debevoise will offer assistance to obtain the necessary work permits and visas. You will have to provide all of the information and documentation required (e.g. proof of academic and professional qualifications, current CV and valid passport). Please note that the firm cannot be held responsible for any restrictions imposed by the UK Border Agency.

Can I train to be a solicitor in England & Wales with a law degree from overseas?
You will be required to complete the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and then the Legal Practice Course (LPC) before you are able to start your training contract. The requirements are different if your undergraduate law degree was obtained from a common law jurisdiction (e.g. Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, South Africa) and you may be able to complete the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS). Please check these requirements with the SRA. 

I am unsuccessful after my interview; can I re-apply in the future?
You may reapply but candidates who have been interviewed before, and not been offered a training contract, are unlikely to be successful in a subsequent application.

Do you have a preferred institution for the GDL and LPC?
The firm’s preference is for future trainees to study at the University of Law, London Moorgate.

If I have already started the GDL or LPC, will I be reimbursed for my fees?
If you have recently started the course then the firm will fully reimburse your fees. However, if you have completed or substantially completed the course prior to accepting our offer, the firm will not reimburse your fees.

Can I start my training contract earlier than the advertised intake?
Whilst Debevoise cannot guarantee you a position earlier than advertised, the firm does occasionally have positions available sooner.

How many trainees are kept on at qualification?
London retention rates are consistently high and most trainees are offered and accept associate roles with us.

Do you provide individual feedback?
Due to the number of people who participate in our open days and vacation schemes, we are unable to provide individual feedback to unsuccessful candidates.