Commercial awareness is one of the key skills that law firms look for in future trainees – taking time to build yours is an essential part of the process of becoming a lawyer.

Conducting in-depth research into a law firm before making an application is essential – it will be challenging to secure a training contract without doing so. Here is a succinct guide on how to research law firms when applying for vacation schemes.

Jeremy Hunt announced the UK’s 2023 budget and we’ve broken down what’s in it for you. Plus, the UK saw its largest strike in decades this week; the BBC has been accused of bowing to government pressures over headlines; Gary Lineker caused quite the stir with a controversial Tweet; and there’s some exciting news for anyone planning a holiday.

Here is LawCareers.Net’s 26-step guide to the training contract application process, plus 10 mock interview questions to help you prepare.

How is the gig economy impacting employment status?

There are several factors to take into account when choosing which solicitors’ firm or barristers’ chambers to apply to, including the type of law and office locations. Use this Feature to help you narrow down potential employers based on your preferences and interests.

What caused the change in the law around e-scooters and why is it still not possible to ride personal e-scooters in public?

There are several factors to consider when choosing which solicitors’ firm or barristers’ chambers to apply to, including the type of law and office locations. This guide will help you to narrow down potential employers based on your preferences and interests.

Ayman Shehata is proof that not all successful careers as a solicitor are linear. He explains how he secured his training contract after university, the exciting work he does in corporate law and what makes Charles Russell Speechlys LLP stand out.  

Find out how Lucy Conway, a corporate associate in Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher UK LLP’s corporate team, got into law, the types of case she works on and her advice for aspiring lawyers. 

What is the impact of geopolitical events on commodity markets and how do commodity traders manage the impact of geopolitical events?

Find out what Shoosmiths’ emerging talent team is looking for in its new Discover programme for underrepresented groups, how the firm is adopting the Solicitors Qualifying Exam and Laura’s advice for those contemplating a career at the firm. 

How effective are the efforts currently underway to prevent companies from avoiding paying corporation tax?

Why is cyber security grabbing the headlines and what does it mean for businesses?

Was the recent conviction of Tom Hayes for rigging the London Interbank Offered Rate (Libor) and subsequent 14-year sentence disproportionate for what some see as an essentially victimless crime?

What is the corporate veil and can it be lifted?

What's the SQE? What do you need to know? How will it impact your route to qualifying?

An important part of going to university is having a great time, meeting new friends and making the most of the wide variety of opportunities that being a student has to offer. That being said, focusing solely on fun and not paying attention to your academics is likely to result in a few missed opportunities. A healthy balance of work and socialising during your first year will have long-term benefits that you’ll appreciate later down the line.

Access to justice is invaluable, but at what price?

A recent study by MasterCard named London as the world's financial centre - so what’s happened to New York?