Law Training Contract: Firm Specialisms & Training Contract Seats
The CMS academy – that you will need to take on before you can qualify for a training contract here – is a three week program designed to build knowledge and skills, and to provide an insight into life at a global commercial law firm. The first week is designed to focus on the business of law, and the two following weeks are an internship designed to give a realistic experience of working at CMS.
The training contract then consists of four six-month seats, where you will work across different practice groups. You will meet clients and work alongside lawyers of all levels from the outset. The firm ensures that you have ample access to learning – from courses, lectures and workshops – throughout your time as a trainee. This, of course, is in addition to your on-the-job training. You will be provided with a dedicated seat supervisor, as well as a dedicated Early Talent Development team, and there’s even a trainee representative committee made up of elected trainees across locations and intakes.
Law Training Contract: Past Interview Format & Questions
The assessment format for the CMS Academy – which will be what dictates whether you get a training contract – involves initial online assessments, then a video interview, then an assessment day.
The Video Interview
 The video interview is a ‘short 15 minute interview where you will answer a series of pre-recorded questions.’ From past candidates, examples include:
– What would you do when confronted with a difficulty in your work?
– What differentiates CMS from its competitors?
– Who are CMS’ competitors?
– Describe a situation where you faced a problem and had to use extensive communication to deal with it.
– Imagine that you have realised that you are going to struggle to meet a deadline for a piece of work that a partner has set. What would you do?
– Why are you interested in CMS?
– Give an example of your ability as a leader.
– Give an example of your ability as a team worker.
– What would you do if you fell behind on your work here?