Interviewing with law firms: how to prepare and stand out

The most important part of preparing for an interview is practice. Knowing what job interview questions you might be asked is essential. That way, you can craft your answers in advance and feel confident in your responses when the pressure is on.

Be familiar with your experience and CV

Your CV is usually the starting point for discussion in a law firm interview, so you should be ready to expand on every detail. Interviewers will want to know not just what you did, but why you made certain choices and what you learned from the experience. For example, be prepared to explain why you studied a particular course at university, the role you played in a project or deal and how it linked to the broader business aims.

The level of detail expected will vary depending on your seniority. Junior associates and NQs may be questioned about due diligence or drafting experience, but interviewers will still expect you to demonstrate a clear understanding of the wider transaction. Mid-level and senior associates, on the other hand, should be ready to discuss leading matters, managing teams, or contributing to business development.

When preparing, focus on:

• Highlighting key responsibilities and achievements, especially work beyond what is expected at your PQE level
• Tailoring your answers to the firm’s scope of work, using language from the job description where possible
• Explaining your reasons for exploring external roles or leaving your current firm
• Connecting your experience and motivations to what excites you about this specific firm or team (such as scope of the role, sector focus, client base, international reach, or secondment opportunities)

Newly qualified lawyers (NQs) may also be asked about their preference for staying with their current firm versus moving externally, even if retention decisions have not yet been confirmed. Your answer should remain diplomatic, showing that you have researched the firm thoroughly and can articulate a positive reason for wanting to join.

Download our NQ Guide.

Preparing for technical assessment questions

Some technical questions may be general while others may focus on specific transactions, giving you insight into key areas of work and expectations. Some firms may also include a written technical assessment, such as drafting a client email on a legal issue or reviewing a contract to identify and amend clauses.

To prepare, review recent matters and focus on client-specific legal advice that is commercially valuable in your practice area. While recalling specific legislation is rare, familiarity with key precedents or procedures may be helpful for contentious roles.

Consider using The STAR interview technique, which will ensure that you cover all the necessary details that the interviewer is looking for—and that you do so in a coherent, easy-to-follow way.

If you have limited experience in a practice area, consider seeking opportunities to support a partner or attending related seminars. This demonstrates genuine interest and proactivity which partners value highly.

Examples of technical questions during associate interviews include

• How would you explain a recent case or transaction you have worked on?
• What clauses would you focus on when reviewing a commercial contract?
• How would you draft a clear, concise email to a client explaining a legal issue?
• What conflicts need to be considered? (litigation NQ interview)
• When would you need a minority investor retention clause in a shareholder agreement? (private equity interview)
• What might you advise (said client) in relation to costs when considering arbitration or pursuing the matter through the High Court? (litigation interview)

General questions

• Why has the position become available?
• What is the culture of your organisation?
• What type of employee is historically successful in your company?
• How do you appraise the performance of your employees?
• What would I expect to be involved in during my first 3/6/12 months?
• Can you talk me through a typical day in the life of this role?
• What will be my biggest challenge in this role?
• What are the long-term prospects for the successful applicant?
• What are the opportunities for growth within this role?
• Is there a possibility of working overseas?
• What are the future plans of the company?
• What is the policy of your company on training and development?
• Who do you regard as your main competitors?
• Ask about the interviewer’s background.

Questions for Associates/Senior Associates

• What are the expectations of Associates in supporting Partners on transactions/matters?
• What are the expectations of engaging in business development and how might that change over time?
• How are Junior Associates supported with training?
• What is the team’s trajectory/growth plan over the next few years?
• What are the secondment opportunities?

Questions to ask interviewers

If you bring good interview questions to your interview, you’ll find out quickly if the job is the right match for you. You’ll also demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are interested and prepared – it might even provide insights as to whether the manager has any reservations about you for the role.

If appropriate, weave your questions into the conversation as the interview
progresses to show you’re proactive and engaged. Coming prepared with a list of thoughtful questions and ticking them off as you go will help you stay focused and achieve a successful interview outcome.

To effectively demonstrate your suitability for a role, focus on sharing specific examples from your past that highlight your abilities. Competency-based interview questions use a structured approach to assess how well you fit a role by focusing on your past experiences.

Law firm interviews test a wide spectrum of skills: your knowledge of your CV, your ability to handle technical questions, and your curiosity through the questions you ask. By preparing carefully for each of these areas, you will be able to demonstrate confidence, competence, and a genuine interest in the firm.

Download the full guide: The essential interview guide for Associate Lawyers interviewing in law firms