Extenuating circumstances in applications

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Importance of informing employers and universities

It’s so important to inform employers and universities when you experience genuine mitigating circumstances that have affected or may affect your academic performance. This can be difficult, especially if you’ve suffered from a serious illness and may, understandably, be uncomfortable talking to recruiters about something so personal.

In addition, some law firms use automated application screening systems, which might screen out applications with bad grades caused by extenuating circumstances before they’re even read by a human being.

Common extenuating circumstances

All kinds of unfortunate things beyond our control can happen to put normal life on hold. Illness, bereavement and family problems are all likely to affect every one of us at some point. Yet when disaster strikes, everything else seems to carry on as usual and it’s easy to worry you’re being left behind.

When the worst happens for someone on the intensely demanding and competitive path to a career in law, it can negatively impact their studies and results. Plus, it might prevent them from pursuing valuable work experience opportunities. All of these setbacks are of course serious disadvantages when applying for a training contract or pupillage.

How can I include extenuating circumstances in my law firm applications?

To make your potential employer aware of any genuine extenuating circumstances, contact the recruitment team at the firm you want to apply to and enquire about how best to display any extenuating circumstances in your application. Before reaching out, it’s worth making sure this information isn’t readily available on the law firm’s website. Keep it professional and matter of fact – you don’t have to disclose every detail.

You may also need to provide verification of your circumstances in the form – for example, a doctor’s letter or a supporting letter from your university, college or school. It’s important to demonstrate that under ‘normal’ circumstances, you achieve good grades and are the kind of bright, keen candidate they’re looking for. Extenuating circumstances can explain a bad exam or a bad year, but law firms still want to employ candidates who are engaged, hardworking people who will make good lawyers.

Want to find out more about becoming a solicitor? Head to LawCareers.Net’s Solicitors hub for application advice, law firm insights and training contract details.

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