2025

Please explain why you want to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor and why you would like to practice at Dechert. (300 words)

Dechert’s commitment to innovation, particularly its adoption of AI and Robotic Process Automation (RPA), resonates with my experience at [redacted], where I played a key role in driving innovation at a purpose-driven startup. At [redacted], we leveraged technology and innovative methods to build language skills for lawyers, much like Dechert’s approach to using AI to enhance legal processes and client service. This forward-thinking mindset is something I value, and it aligns with my own experience of using tech to improve outcomes. Additionally, Dechert’s focus on providing actionable and commercial advice speaks to the insights I have gained as a Brand Ambassador for the Commercial Law Academy. In this role, I have deepened my commercial awareness by promoting legal education and understanding key commercial concepts, which has been further enriched by my exposure to leading commercial law firms through insight days. This blend of innovation and commercial acumen makes Dechert an ideal firm for me to grow and excel as a solicitor.

Dechert is frequently retained to work on the most challenging matters, and prides itself on its ability to deliver premium legal services and sound business judgment to its clients. In your opinion, other than the above, what are the three key reasons why our clients instruct us? (300 words)

First, Dechert’s broad market knowledge is a cornerstone of its client offerings. The firm’s deep expertise across sectors like financial services, private equity, and asset management, coupled with its representation of 40 Fortune 100 companies, equips Dechert to provide commercially viable, actionable advice. Clients value how Dechert responds to geopolitical uncertainties and complex market conditions. For example, before the Brexit referendum, the firm established a dedicated team and hotline to guide clients through potential outcomes. This level of insight and preparedness ensures that Dechert delivers advice grounded in real-time market knowledge, helping clients navigate regulatory risks and commercial challenges with confidence.

Second, Dechert’s commitment to innovation sets it apart. Recognised as the fifth most innovative law firm by the Financial Times in 2021, Dechert continually embraces cutting-edge solutions to improve client outcomes. The firm’s work advising on the Swedish state pension fund AP7’s investment in a long-term private equity fund demonstrates its forward-thinking approach to creating flexible, innovative investment structures. Additionally, the firm’s use of AI and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has optimised efficiency in handling complex transactions, allowing clients to benefit from faster, more cost-effective service without compromising quality.

Finally, Dechert’s ability to build and maintain strong, enduring client relationships is a key factor in why clients consistently choose the firm. Clients like Credit Suisse express the highest degree of confidence in Dechert’s work product, citing their pleasure in collaborating with the firm’s teams. This trust stems not only from Dechert’s technical expertise but also from its dedication to understanding and addressing client needs on a closer level. Dechert's client-first approach fosters a sense of partnership, ensuring that each client receives tailored, commercially sound advice. It’s this blend of trusted relationships and consistent delivery of high-quality, practical solutions that solidifies Dechert’s reputation as a go-to advisor for complex matters.

Please state your non-academic activities and interests indicating any positions of responsibility held and any particular achievements you would like to mention. (300 words)

As a [redacted] at [redacted], I manage all property viewings for the [redacted] branch. This role has significantly enhanced my commercial awareness, particularly in understanding market trends, property values, and client behaviour. By working closely with potential tenants and property owners, I’ve gained firsthand insight into the dynamics of the property market, allowing me to anticipate market shifts and advise clients on making informed decisions. This practical exposure has deepened my understanding of how market forces shape business decisions—skills I look forward to applying in the legal sector.

In my role as Brand Ambassador for [redacted], I manage the firm’s Instagram account for [redacted] and organise live events, strengthening my ability to market legal opportunities and engage with a target audience. This has provided me with valuable insights into the legal profession's intersection with branding and business development, further sharpening my commercial understanding and strategic thinking.

Similarly, as a Brand Ambassador for the Commercial Law Academy, I promote legal resources and courses that enhance commercial awareness among aspiring lawyers. This role requires me to stay up-to-date with industry developments and convey these insights to students, helping me refine my understanding of the commercial landscape in law and the importance of keeping abreast of evolving legal and commercial trends.

Finally, my role at [redacted]  as [redacted] and [redacted] gave me a deeper understanding of how innovation and technology can drive business success. I helped develop strategies that align with the company’s mission and mentored lawyers, further enriching my commercial acumen and adaptability.

These diverse experiences, combined with my curiosity and passion for the commercial aspects of law, have equipped me with a well-rounded perspective, positioning me to thrive in the legal profession.

If applicable please state any additional information which you think is relevant to your application or which you think has not been covered adequately in this form. (300 words)

I have had the privilege of being involved with Aspiring Solicitors, an organization partnered with Dechert, through three programs: First, Access (ASAP), and Aspire. These initiatives have been invaluable in my development, providing tailored guidance on breaking into the legal profession and access to exclusive opportunities for networking and skills-building. Through them, I gained direct insights into the expectations of top firms like Dechert and honed my commercial awareness and practical skills. This partnership has been pivotal in shaping my career path and has reaffirmed my desire to work at Dechert.

Additionally, my unique selling point lies in the personal growth I achieved during my year abroad. Traveling and working across Australia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, I encountered both enriching and challenging situations that required me to be versatile and quick-thinking. One significant example was breaking down in the remote Australian outback, two hours from the nearest town and with no signal. Faced with this situation, I had to remain calm, resourceful, and resilient, finding a solution through clear communication and strategic thinking. These experiences have instilled in me critical skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and the ability to stay composed under pressure—all of which are vital in a fast-paced legal environment.

Moreover, my travels have also equipped me with an international mindset and a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. I believe this global perspective is essential when working at a firm like Dechert, which has a wide-reaching international client base. My ability to navigate cultural differences, coupled with the resilience and adaptability I developed abroad, uniquely positions me to contribute effectively to Dechert's global practice. These qualities, alongside my professional development through Aspiring Solicitors, make me well-prepared to thrive at Dechert.

2024

Please explain why you want to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor and why you would like to practice at Dechert. Word Count (300 words)

My passion for commercial law stems from my entrepreneurial instinct and captivation in law. Before university, I successfully launched a business demonstrating resilience and business acumen. I conducted market research, identifying a need and selling hairdressing scissors for a 300% profit. Despite numerous rejections, I persisted, mastering my sales pitches, public speaking and negotiation skills.  

Secondly, the contractual intricacies of commercial law fascinate me. Market practices primarily direct commercial lawyers within the parameters of the law - so lawyers must proactively provide innovative solutions to satisfy client needs and potential future externalities. This challenging aspect intellectually invigorates me. 

Moreover, Dechert's representation of Airbus in negotiating a £3.6 billion multi-jurisdictional settlement showcases the significant cross-border impact of commercial law - inspiring me. Working on headline-hitting cases with high-profile like Barclays and JP Morgan aligns with my ambitions to aid business growth and solve dynamic problems with high stakes. To demonstrate, I advised on business restructuring as a legal advisor and during my Freshfields internship, I incorporated environmentally conscious clauses. 

Furthermore, Dechert's small trainee intake provides visibility and opportunities for increased responsibility. I thrive in tight-knit teams, exemplified by my successful collaboration during my Justice Hub Scheme.  

Additionally, being one of the first US law firms to establish a London Office that is not a satellite illustrates Dechert's pioneering spirit - setting it apart from other US law firms.

Finally, the prospect of hands-on experience in six seats and a flat hierarchy distinguishes Dechert from Magic Circle firms, providing invaluable opportunities for a law graduate like myself, eager to immerse in challenging work, learn from diverse experiences, and collaborate with others. Also, the opportunity for an international secondment is exhilarating.

Overall, the opportunity to make a lasting difference at Dechert aligns with my aspirations - for a stimulating and dynamic career.

Dechert is frequently retained to work on the most challenging matters, and prides itself on its ability to deliver premium legal services and sound business judgment to its clients. In your opinion, other than the above, what are the three key reasons why our clients instruct us? Word Count (300 words)

Dechert stands out for three additional reasons that attract clients. 

Firstly, its stellar reputation sets it apart - illustrated by its growth, clientele and client retention. Dechert attained substantial growth since being one of the first US law firms to establish itself in London. Noteworthy clientele includes 40 Fortune 100 companies, 24 of the top 25 global asset management firms, and 41 of the top 50 global private debt firms - securing Dechert's reputation as an excellent legal advisor. Its recent success in advising Abivax, handling multiple financing transactions that total over $500 million, highlighted excellent client retention and contributed to its esteemed reputation.

Secondly, Dechert's global reach and expertise in handling intricate cross-border matters stand out with offices spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It provides clients with a unique advantage in navigating international legal landscapes. Dechert's involvement in landmark transactions by advising the Arab Republic of Egypt on its RMB 3.5 billion sustainable panda bond showcases its prowess in handling complex, multinational legal needs.

Finally, Dechert's passion for innovation and thought leadership attracts clients - reinforced by its consistent ranking as one of the "Most Innovative Law Firms in North America" and by the Financial Times in Europe. It actively engages in emerging legal trends, such as advising on cryptocurrency deals. Additionally, it implements legal tech tools for automation, such as Office & Dragons. On one project, it reduced associate time for data analysis from six weeks to half a day, enabling time for more complex aspects - further improving the quality of service. Dechert's forward-thinking provides value for money for clients seeking innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.

Overall, clients instruct Dechert for its stellar reputation, global reach with cross-border expertise and innovative solutions that provide better value. 

Please state your non-academic activities and interests indicating any positions of responsibility held and any particular achievements you would like to mention. (300 words)

As part of my Duke of Edinburgh - Silver Award journey, I actively participated in Brazilian Ji Jitsu and Muay Thai at a youth club, concurrently volunteering to set up these physical activities. Additionally, I contributed to the Human Relief Foundation by raising over £1,000 through adventurous endeavours like skydiving and running 10 km while fasting during Ramadan. The funds were dedicated to constructing a school in Mosul, Iraq, offering vocational courses to empower individuals for long-term self-sufficiency. I further supported this goal by organising fun fairs, where I managed stalls, distributed leaflets, and collected donations to maximise outreach.

Moreover, I volunteered as a Student Ambassador at the University of Manchester. Actively promoting the university, I conducted campus tours, shared statistical insights, provided information about our facilities through thorough research and played a pivotal role in informing and supporting prospective. Furthermore, I served as a Student Advisor at the Legal Advice Centre of the University of Manchester, assisting individuals without the means to afford legal advice. Utilising a case file management system, I reviewed documents, conducted interviews, and drafted practical legal advice letters in commercial law, housing, and wills and probate. I ensured GDPR compliance, managed time efficiently, and fostered effective teamwork and communication with my partner. This multifaceted experience honed my legal expertise and commitment to community service.

Finally, my most recent achievements include improving my fitness - from initially struggling to run down a single stretch of road without stopping to achieving a continuous 10km run. Also, I progressed to lifting heavier weights in my weightlifting training than the previous year. Last year, I mastered completing a ‘muscle-up’ through dedicated training and meticulous research into proper technique and form. My accomplishments have empowered me to believe I can conquer anything I put my mind to.

2021

Please explain why you want to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor and why you would like to practice at Dechert. (300 words)

I am impressed with Dechert’s strong commitment to diversity to the legal profession. As a member of both Rare and Aspiring Solicitors, this is important to me. The firm has been awarded with a Commendation for Diversity Award (LawCareers.Net Awards 2019) and the firm’s internal Inclusion & Diversity Committee demonstrates Dechert’s open and inclusive culture, which I believe I am able to thrive in.

Another reason that attracted me to Dechert was the quality of training. Their small intake of 10 trainees would allow me to gain valuable exposure into a wide variety of practice areas, including Litigation and Financial Regulation. Given the small intake, I am excited at the prospect of the higher level of responsibility given to us as trainees whilst working on a diverse range of practice areas. This separates Dechert from other firms, especially those with larger trainee intakes since the level of responsibility and hands-on experience with client work may not be felt as much.

Lastly, I wish to practice at Dechert for its strong international presence. With 29 offices operating under one integrated profit pool, the opportunity to work at a firm well hedged in key markets around the world is exciting. Having lived in London, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, the exposure to new social and business cultures has piqued my interest to work internationally, and deal with clients on both domestic and cross-jurisdictional matters. Furthermore, Dechert’s heavy involvement with GIC as a client stood out to me, given my Singaporean background. This shows the international nature of the firm come to life through its work with clients from all over the world.

Dechert is frequently retained to work on the most challenging matters, and prides itself on its ability to deliver premium legal services and sound business judgment to its clients. In your opinion, other than the above, what are the three key reasons why our clients instruct us? (300 words)

An obvious reason for clients to instruct Dechert is its reputation and high tier ranking across a range of practice areas. For example, Legal 500 ranks the firm in Tier 1 for Corporate Crime and Regulation. Moreover: over half of Dechert's 2018 revenue came from clients who have been with the firm for more than 5 years. This shows the quality of Dechert's expertise and reputation across its work, resulting in clients not only instructing Dechert, but also retaining them.

Clients choose to instruct Dechert for the firm's ingenuity and progressiveness in the legal sector. Recently, Dechert advised Airbus in the global strategy and investigation over alleged bribery and corruption. This led to the first coordinated global settlement with major UK, French and American authorities, and instituted technology to help with the review of documents and due diligence. This is the first case of its kind to be conducted almost completely by machine learning technology and highlights the ingenuity and adaptability of Dechert's service to clients.

Lastly, another reason why clients instruct Dechert can be attributed to the continual restructuring and lateral hires across practice areas. The recruitment of Alistair Goldrein to the London office is indicative of Dechert's effort to strengthening its restructuring and insolvency practice. The hire of Marianna Tothova forms part of the firm's wider strategy to increase funds capabilities across Europe, in response to the growing threat of Brexit. Both hires indicate to clients that the firm actively engages in the legal market and the wider economy to bolster its current roster of lawyers, and ensures the work delivered is done by the best in their relevant practice areas.

Please state your non-academic activities and interests indicating any positions of responsibility held and any particular achievements you would like to mention. (300 words)

Three years of varsity boxing has taught me several lessons beyond the art of boxing. The discipline and commitment to training and dieting, while juggling studies and other obligations. I adopted rigorous schedules to ensure these expectations were met. Often, I attended 3-hour training sessions, 5 times a week. While a fight by nature concerns two individuals, I was part of a greater team: our coach, my training partners and teammates. I grew to appreciate the mental focus to defending against punches and to exploit openings and the resilience to get back on my feet and to refocus on the next round. By the end of my time at [non-London Russell Group university], I had won 4 out of 5 bouts against other universities.

At University, I was selected to join the Access to Justice Advice Clinic to take part in pro bono work. Not only did this experience give me the chance to apply my understanding of black-letter law into practice but allowed me to understand the significance of pro bono to lawyers, and the obligation for lawyers to give back to the public. I hope to take advantage of Dechert's pro bono opportunities given that the firm requires its lawyers to undertake at least 25 hours of pro bono annually and is a signatory to the Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge.

Lastly, I operate a small resale business for streetwear to pursue my interest in fashion. I am responsible for all aspects of the business: from supply-side management, to customer service, to delivery. My years of research into this niche market have allowed my business to thrive and I received acclaim from clientele for high-quality customer service and has translated into regular, loyal customers. This provides me with an appreciation for the demands of business and commercial awareness.

If applicable please state any additional information which you think is relevant to your application or which you think has not been covered adequately in this form. (300 words)

I participated in the University of [redacted - non-London Russell Group university] Negotiation Competition, where I finished first out of 100 participants. During the event, I was tasked with fictitious dispute scenarios between parties and had to negotiate an outcome that was most favourable to my client. This experience allowed me to appreciate the intersection between law and commerce. Scenarios were drafted where parties were from a specific industry, and thus the perspectives of different stakeholders had to be cared for. I enjoyed the critical thinking associated with these tasks by opening myself up to challenges in areas I was previously unfamiliar with.

Following this experience, I was selected to join the Negotiation Committee the following year. My role was to promote and organise workshops on campus as well as coordinate the logistics of the competition for that year. I suggested creating a bigger social media presence for the Committee as this was a more efficient method of getting exposure and provided an accessible means of communication for participants to reach out to us. I also hosted a number of taster workshops for students to work on a simulation as practice for the competition. My team and I were commended by the Law School for successfully increasing the number of participants in the competition by 56% from the previous year. As a result, the 156 participants that year was the highest sign-up figure to date, where 36 of these were non-Law school students (where previously, there had not been any). This experience highlighted the importance of teamwork and the commitment to perform accordingly to execute a task successfully. Similarly, working at Dechert as a trainee places a large responsibility on the trainee to effectively carry out a task in order to deliver the high quality of service expected by my colleagues, and the client.