Advantages of a Legal Internship in Europe
When exploring the potential opportunities available for students looking to embark on an international law placement, there are plenty of reasons why a legal internship in Europe can be seen as a worthwhile investment in the future. Many individuals who have undergone internship roles abroad contest that it can be a life-changing experience, with several key career benefits to be gained through the westernisation of the European legal system, exposure to foreign laws and the unique contribution these countries make to an increasingly globalised world. Covering more than 2 million square miles of land and with several hundred languages spoken by its inhabitants, it is little wonder that Europe represents the most diverse continent on the planet. Through a legal internship abroad, valuable exposure to the various linguistic groups, legal systems, governmental structures, historical significance and cultural institutions that favour the European market, not only helps individuals develop a greater understanding and appreciation of these diverse systems but can also provide the essential knowledge that increases competitiveness and desirability when pursuing a legal career in the UK . Furthermore, with Europe boasting Europe’s highest GDP per capita and lowest unemployment rate, it is also worth noting that many European countries represent some of the strongest developed economies within the world. Therefore, those who complete a European internship have enjoyed access to government-backed programmes that have played a vital role in transforming nations such as Poland and the Czech Republic from communist-styled economies to top-ranked free market systems. As a result, many interns have noted first-hand the thriving communities and attractive lifestyles that these well-organised public policies have created. From a career standpoint, gaining legal work experience in Europe is also a valuable opportunity to connect with a vast range of international professionals. Thanks to Europe’s innovative approaches to advanced education, such as the Erasmus programme, it has helped to create some of the most sought-after learning institutions in the world and continue to bring together students from across the globe. Over the years, the majority of students undertaking temporary work placements in European countries have been able to build professional connections with some of the brightest legal minds in the industry; this, in turn, provides invaluable opportunities to build fruitful career networks.
Preferred Locations for Legal Internships
Leading the list of countries providing opportunities to explore the continent, the United Kingdom is home to many of the best law firms in Europe. With its legal system being based on English common law, and its deeply rooted history of being one of the world’s major powers, it continues to be a centre of influence within modern global affairs. For interns looking for work in UK, having knowledge of the trends in UK’s economy and international affairs will give them an edge as the UK market is very aware and affected by global changes.
Germany is the powerhouse of the EU and also has a strong and respected legal market. Frankfurt is the financial capital of the country and is also home to the German and European Stock Exchange. Considered a tourist hub and business, financial, academic and cultural centre, the city also offers internships in a wide range of organisations. Berlin, the country’s capital, is often ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, and would make for a great city for internships as well.
With a comparable population to England and the third highest GDP within the EU after Germany and France, France is also a popular destination for law interns. Paris is known as the capital of culture, but also an academic and multicultural capital. The second largest French city by population, Marseille is another major centre for internships in France.
Salary, commutes to work and working hours are all things German workers typically rank high in terms of importance. Interns that are used to long commutes and long working hours may find it difficult to adjust these German standards of work. Rukola, an internship placement company, points out that French workers typically work less over the week, enjoy the services and benefits from their employers, and come to work late and leave early, whereas the British have similar hours to the rest of the world and enjoy fewer workers’ benefits.
It is pretty easy to speak English in these legal markets, even though it is always a bonus for the interns to speak the target language. Thus, interns could mix business with pleasure by exploring the country once they are done with work. A typical after-work activity is to go to beer gardens in Germany, while in France, people prefer to (if they can) leave the office early to enjoy fine dining. In the UK, people enjoy football games and grab a pint with their colleagues after work.
Many of the leading law firms in Europe operate in these top destinations for legal interns. The likes of Allen & Overy LLP, Baker McKenzie, Clifford Chance, Herbert Smith Freehills, Linklaters LLP and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP & Affiliates have offices in the top cities for legal internships. Working for an internationally recognised firm with many branches across different countries will provide the interns with valuable international experience and increase their employability once they dip their toes into the European legal internship market.
How to Obtain a Legal Internship in Europe
If you’re thinking about working in Europe then you’ll need a visa if you want to protect yourself legally. When a company employs you under an internship scheme or as a student they will sponsor you. Make sure that the visa you’ve applied for is still valid as when it’s running out and your intern supervisor has not agreed to let you continue the internship for a few months longer you’ll have to leave the EU and re-apply from your home country.
If you’re looking for a legal internship in Europe, then you should start by looking at the general websites for internships, for example, Gradcracker or GradJobs. Academic jobs boards may also be worth a try, including LawCareers.net. You could also search for general jobs boards in the country you’re hoping to visit – for example, in Germany, you might try StudentJob or Jobvalley.
Alternatively, you could research the companies or law firms you’d like to work with and check their websites for information on internships. You might want to consider contacting them directly they have a no-cold-calls policy or aren’t advertising the internships, but are nonetheless keen to offer placements. Be prepared in advance with a well-thought-out cover letter and CV outlining why you’d like to work there and what you’d hope to get out of the placement.
If you find a placement you like and you’re invited along for an interview, then you’ll want to prepare beforehand. You can expect to be asked a number of questions relating to your long-term career aims, your interest in that particular country and how you see yourself fitting into the company or firm structure. Prepare examples of your experience that would prove you can be a suitable candidate, and be ready to discuss briefs of the work that you’ve previously undertaken. If you’re not familiar with the language of the country in question, you could try to do this in advance so you might be able to show your potential employers that you’re willing to learn as well as be prepared for questions of a more personal nature about their lives, or the interview in particular.
The intern wage you may receive depends on which country you’re in. In the UK, interns or ‘trainees’ are not entitled to NMW if they can be classed as work experience or training. Interns are not classed as employees if: (i) They are attending a higher education institution and are getting work experience as part of the course, and (ii) the work experience is not more than one year long. The enterprise allowance of €248.34 is across the EU and should be paid every month.
Other European countries do have minimum wage laws. Germany has a minimum wage that was implemented in 2015 which is €8.50 an hour. Although, it does not apply to university internships less than three months long. In Italy, interns are paid a minimum of €500 net for every 6-month internship. In the Netherlands, interns must be paid a stipend of at least €150 per month. As for France, interns must be paid at least €436.05 per month.
Categories of Legal Internships
Many people tend to think of working for a well-known law firm in a big city when considering legal internships in Europe. However, there are many other options out there. Law firm internships are definitely a good way to get a real feel for what it would be like working in that practice area. They are not for everyone, but they do give an insight into law firms as a whole. In addition, it is a great way to make contacts and connections. If you are not sure which area of law to work in, then consider doing an internship in different areas to help you make your decision. Sometimes you would be surprised by what you enjoy the most. In-house legal departments in Businesses, Companies, Corporations, Commercial and Industrial organisations can be a great experience. Some people enjoy this type of role more because they enjoy the environment more than in a law firm. There is much pressure in a law firm and sometimes this does not suit everyone. Some people thrive on pressure other prefer a more relaxed approach. It is worth bearing this in mind when deciding what type of legal internship you would like to apply for. Public Sector internships usually have a more relaxed atmosphere than law firms and normally pay a little less than law internships. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) also offer law students and graduates an opportunity to gain practical training or work experience to follow their studies. The type of work available with these organisations would depend on the focus of the organisation. You may be working with a charity helping those people that are less fortunate to you whereas, if it is a non-profit organisation it may be assisting with research and helping to gather information relating to their cause.
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
Legal internships in Europe typically have some basic eligibility requirements and criteria. A common prerequisite is the attainment of at least an undergraduate law degree from an accredited institution in the candidate’s country of origin. This serves as proof of legal acumen at a base level, and whether a presented undergraduate degree in law will be acceptable or not may vary on a case-by-case basis. In a few countries, such as the United Kingdom, enrollment or completion of the LPC (Legal Practice Course) may be required.
In terms of required skills and aptitude, proficient communication in the local language(s) is generally mandatory, along with proficient command of English, since many business transactions for multinationals and international law firms are conducted in English . While native fluency is not generally required, the ability to communicate business interests effectively and comfortably in both spoken and written forms is essential.
The legal and administrative structure of a given country will often dictate other requirements. For example, an internship in France may require a valid grant of permission to work in the European Union. A visa might be necessary for non-EU country nationals to work in France or any other Schengen Area country. Additionally, some countries may prefer candidates that possess certain social attributes and skills, such as cultural appreciation, interpersonal skills, personal values, ambition, international awareness, and other qualities suited to working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures.
Application Process Scheduling
The application process for legal internships in Europe is often defined by a relatively short window. Therefore, aspiring candidates should become familiar with key deadlines and application procedures well ahead of time. Overall, the timeline largely depends on the country and type of program in which they wish to apply.
In the United Kingdom, for example, many firms set application windows in the autumn months. The sky window for applying to most Magic and Silver Circle firms stretches from the end of summer through the fall. Firms post specific start dates for their programs or trainees – typically spanning two years or more. Top law schools in England and Wales, such as University College London and Cardiff Law School, also have their own application processes. The window for applying to law school voluntary placements in these counties usually opens in the fall.
By contrast, the process is usually simple and straightforward in Scandinavian countries like Norway, Norway and Norway. Application windows are sometimes open year-round. Interns can work part-time or full-time – even while studying at university. These countries even have a shortage of interns, and students are encouraged to apply online and reach out to firms and agencies in such countries.
Candidates in Switzerland should know that the application deadline for some law firms may be as little as six weeks before the internship, while applications for other Swiss firms are open year-round. In some case, law schools and firms may postpone start dates for certain applicants.
Germany, Austria and Switzerland have the smallest and least prestigious legal internship programs in Europe. Therefore, aspiring interns often miss out on these opportunities because they do not know about them. However, many law firms in these countries have large amounts of client work and would benefit from legal interns.
Overall, the application process for European internships is rarely open year-round. Candidate are advised to review application procedures and deadlines for specific programs or firms well in advance of their start dates.
Maximizing Your Internship
Internships may be unpaid, but the return on investment can be invaluable. Even the smallest effort at an internship can lead to priceless connections or experience; something which can catapult you ahead of other candidates for a full time position. Whether you are given space to produce tangible results or not, you can still capitalize on your internship experience with these simple strategies.
Networking is a key part of any successful job search, and your internship is the perfect time to meet the people that matter in your field or industry. It is critical to take time to get personal with your mentors and peers. Ask about their backgrounds and experiences – do not be shy about asking people about themselves; it shows you are genuinely interested and it helps to break the ice.
Mentoring is another way that experienced professionals can help interns capitalize on the experience. More high-level attorneys will be generally willing to share knowledge and expertise, if only asked. Speak up and prepare questions in advance. Try to keep conversation focused on relevant topics, but be open to tangents.
In addition to networking, you should also strive to gain exceptional real world experience during your internship. Whether your internship is with a boutique or large firm, there will be opportunities to learn that do not come along in law school. Take time every week to reflect on what you’ve learned, and think about how that knowledge can be used in the future; you might even want to organize these insights into a career journal. You may also want to add this information to your cover letters or resume as a proof of your ability to execute and adapt to real world tasks.
Take advantage of your time by treating it like an opportunity for professional education, and you will leave your internship with far more than a few lines on your resume.
Opportunities After the Internship
The European legal route is not entirely predictable. Lawyers and organisations vary widely in their attitude to and appreciation of internships. Yet there are opportunities, even if often not explicitly stated. Many of our employers have taken on interns and seen them as useful ways to attract and develop talent. Ultimately, some of our interns have later been recruited into the organisation they were interning for. There is also anecdotal evidence to suggest that large legal placements give a competitive edge in the recruitment process. A number of international law firms and other services firms now subscribe to the idea of early career development through Pro Bono and Knowledge initiatives . These opportunities may become available through your networks and they are a good way to make contacts in the profession early on. Effectively, being proactive will lead to opportunities through your network that would result from applying to positions directly. An internship will likely increase employability and improve opportunities. Getting involved with a respected not-for-profit or public sector bodies gives you valuable experience and demonstrates that you are a team player. Working on real cases will give you a better understanding of particular legal fields and may well give you practical exposure in a specialist field. You may well secure a temporary contract or fixed term placement as a result of your internship, which can kick-start your career.