Freshfields is a global firm with over 280 years’ experience of anticipating change, setting new standards and shaping the future of law. In a complex world where new opportunities evolve quickly, we are a trusted, forward-thinking partner who can give clients the edge and help propel their ambitions.
At Freshfields we are steadfast champions of our clients—that’s why leading global companies turn to us when it matters most. We are proud to be recognised as a top-tier leader in the practice areas most important to clients around the world today.
We bring bold thinking, deep expertise and the latest capabilities to help clients make critical decisions, prepare for new opportunities, and tackle unprecedented matters. When opportunities stretch across borders, we connect clients with experts and advisors from across our global team.
We are deeply committed to making a positive impact for our clients, our communities and the people we serve, and we are transparent about our efforts to drive change.
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Freshfields has offices in Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, China, England, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, the United States of America and Vietnam.
Rating Reviews
Rating is calculated based on
23
reviews and is evolving.
Pros: The firm offers unparalleled opportunities to work on complex, cross-border transactions and disputes, which is fantastic for professional development. Exposure to top-tier clients and sophisticated legal challenges is a major plus. The training and mentorship programs are generally well-regarded, and there's a strong sense of camaraderie amongst junior lawyers, especially during busy spells.
Cons: The intensity of the work can significantly impact work-life balance, particularly when dealing with global client demands across different time zones. While flexible working is available, there's an implicit expectation of availability, which can lead to long hours. Ensuring consistent workload distribution across teams could also be beneficial to prevent burnout.
Advice to Management: Continue investing in mentorship programs and explore ways to better manage peak workloads without compromising associate well-being. Recognizing and rewarding efforts during intense periods would be highly valued.
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Pros: The exposure to high-caliber, international corporate law cases is incredible. I've learned so much working alongside experienced partners and colleagues. The firm invests in training, and the resources available for research and development are top-notch. Colleagues are generally very bright and collaborative, creating a stimulating environment for a junior lawyer.
Cons: Work-life balance can be tough, especially during deal peak times. Long hours are common, and it's not uncommon to work late nights or weekends when a transaction demands it. While there's flexibility in how you manage tasks, the sheer volume often dictates the schedule. Some administrative processes can feel a bit bureaucratic.
Advice to Management: Continue to foster the collaborative culture and invest in associate development programs. Consider further initiatives to support work-life balance during intense periods.
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Pros: The teamwork here is fantastic for a Junior Associate in corporate law. I've had incredible learning opportunities on complex international transactions. Senior associates and partners genuinely invest in your career growth, offering mentorship and challenging assignments in a top-tier law firm.
Cons: The workload can be intense, especially during deal closings in the legal industry, occasionally impacting work-life balance. While career progression is clear, it can feel a bit rigid at times in such a large international law firm. Faster internal communication would be a plus.
Advice to Management: Continue fostering the strong mentorship programs for new associates. Exploring further initiatives to manage high-intensity periods would benefit overall well-being. Keeping transparent communication channels open helps navigate the demands of big law.
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Does Freshfields offer remote work options for their legal professionals in London?
Yes, Freshfields is open to hybrid work, allowing remote work flexibility for roles like associates. Many large law firms in the UK, including Freshfields, are adapting to support a better work-life balance for their teams.
What's the starting pay like for a junior lawyer at Freshfields in London?
When I joined Freshfields as a trainee in their London office, the starting salary was competitive for a magic circle firm, around £50,000, and it increased significantly upon qualification. It's a great starting point for a legal career.
What does the background check process involve for a graduate role at Freshfields in London?
For graduate roles at Freshfields, the background checks typically include referencing and a basic criminal record check, which are standard for a large international law firm.
What's the visibility of the Freshfields Bruckhaus Dering CEO like within the global legal industry?
The Freshfields CEO has a strong presence, often speaking at major international law events and engaging in thought leadership, which really boosts the firm's profile in the competitive global legal market.
What was your experience like interviewing at Freshfields Bruckhaus Dering in London?
My interview process at Freshfields in London was thorough, involving several stages that assessed my skills for a legal role. The interviewers were professional and gave me a clear understanding of the large, international law firm's culture.
What is the working culture like at Freshfields, especially for junior lawyers in their London office?
The culture at Freshfields in London is demanding but supportive, with opportunities to learn from experienced partners. While it's a large global law firm, there's a sense of camaraderie among associates.
What's the typical dress code for a junior associate at Freshfields in London?
At Freshfields, the dress code for junior associates in their London office is generally smart business attire, meaning suits are common for client-facing roles. It's professional, but not overly rigid, allowing for some personal style within those bounds.
What's the typical hiring process like for a junior associate role at Freshfields in London?
The hiring process for junior associates at Freshfields in London usually involves online applications, psychometric tests, and then a final interview with partners. It felt quite thorough but fair for a large global law firm.
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