2021

Tuula Davis

Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP

99 Gresham Street

London, EC2V 7NG

25 January 2021

Dear Tuula Davis, 

I am writing to apply for a training contract at Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP ("Curtis") as part of the 2021 intake. Please find enclosed with this letter a copy of my CV, a schedule to which includes full details of my educational qualifications from GCSEs onwards. 

My first introduction to Curtis was through hearing stories and recommendations from fellow delegates during my Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at [redacted] University. Attendees were drawn from around the world with varied backgrounds in industry; I myself embarked upon the MBA having completed 8 years working in film production for global studios Disney and Warner Brothers, and spending time working in New York. Curtis was, and is, consistently referenced as an example of a firm with deep understanding of international clients and businesses, as exemplified through its focus on arbitration as the principal route for dispute resolution. The firm's reputation and international presence also provides it with capability to advise on complex cases involving multiple jurisdiction.

It was clear that the program areas that interested me most on the MBA were the legal ones: corporate structures, business disputes, commercial negotiations, and technical detail. I felt a natural and increasing draw to the law, and Curtis in particular, which was borne out by further research and investigations. After completing my MBA studies at [redacted], I built on this experience with my legal studies at BPP (with commendation and distinction on my GDL and LPC) and complemented this further with experiences of the legal profession. My time spent working as a paralegal at [redacted law firm], my shadowing and research assistance for barristers at [redacted] Chambers, my discussions with lawyers, attendance at open days and law firm events - these have all reinforced my conviction and determination to pursue a legal career and become a commercial solicitor with a focus upon international disputes. Most recently my time as a paralegal, immersed in a team and experiencing day to-day legal practice, have provided real insight into life as a lawyer. I understand what I can expect of the legal profession but, more importantly, what is to be expected of me.

Curtis has a strong reputation for rewarding hard work, its collegiate atmosphere and where trainees are given responsibility early. As a mature applicant, I am ready and eager for this challenge. As well as its strong work ethic, Curtis has an ideal corporate environment. It welcomes diversity and, as a gay man who has previously been the victim of discrimination, I value the firm's authentic commitment to inclusivity.

I am accustomed to long hours and working under pressure in high intensity environments with tight deadlines. This, combined with my undergraduate and postgraduate studies, has given me a unique combination of commercial knowledge coupled with real-world experience. I am now able to apply my business acumen towards legal issues and vice-versa, which I believe Curtis's clients would appreciate.

Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to hearing from you. 

Yours sincerely,

[Candidate’s name]