The Firm

At the turn of this millennium, UK firm Freshfields (1743), Deringer Tessin Herrmann & Sedemund, and Bruckhaus Westrick Heller Löber came together to form what we know today as the global powerhouse Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. A full service firm with a strong international focus, Freshfields is best known for its corporate practice, representing some of the biggest clients in deals and disputes whose value ranges in the billions.

The Work

As the top-ranking firm in M&A in the UK and one of the world’s four “most capable corporate firms” (Chambers UK), Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer pulls in some of the world’s highest-valued deals and disputes. Representing both global conglomerates such as Tesco and the Alibaba Group, as well as national governments, the work is not for the faint-hearted, as deals are incredibly complex and of enormous significance to the global market. The firm also boasts an impressive dispute resolution practice, representing parties and settling disputes across the world over multi-billion dollar disputes in South Africa, UAE, and CIS nations, to name a few.

Balance

Of course, one does not get to become a global powerhouse in law without putting the hours in - be prepared for more than a few long nights. As above, the work is incredibly complex, and expects trainees to be working at their level best, with a lot of responsibility being given to the trainees from the get-go, as compared to other firms- not only attending but conducting client meetings and working on IPOs were just some of the things that past trainees have been tasked to do. If this sort of high-level, high-pressure environment is what you need to turn that coal into diamonds, then Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer might be for you.

“Most partners are approachable; they come down and buy you coffee and have a chat. There's generally a lot of laughter… they are friendly, willing to help, and interested in you as a person.” 

Diversity & CSR

Freshfields has been active in promoting diversity and inclusivity in its ranks, fielding the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship Scheme, and being a strong participant in groups like the 30% Club (for the inclusion of women in business leadership). It was also the first global law firm to enter the Stonewall Top 100 Employers for LGBTQ+ people in Britain, and continues to work with social mobility initiatives across the world, in places like Singapore and Hong Kong. 
 

Opportunities

Open Days, Freshers Meet Freshfields, Campus Ambassador Position,First Year Scheme, Vacation Schemes, Training Contract
Read more at: http://www.freshfields.com/