EARLY CAREERS
International training programme
Programme details
Explore the intersection between law and business. Discover how an international law firm makes an impact in Hong Kong and around the world. Develop the skills you need for a global legal career. You’ll do all this and more on our two-year international training programme.
As a trainee, you'll start a global career that transcends traditional boundaries. You'll be part of a firm that embraces new ideas and fosters progress. With a focus on shaping the future of law, you'll do work that's as diverse as the world we live in.
The international training programme is designed for people who have a global mindset and appreciate the nuances of local contexts. You'll do the most stimulating work, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and navigate the complexities of our interconnected world.
On the international training programme, you will:
- complete four, six-month rotations in our practice groups. You'll also have international secondment opportunities, from your second rotation onwards;
- be at the forefront of legal innovation, working on high-profile, cross-border projects that will shape the future of law and business. You’ll see how we think across borders to find creative solutions for our clients;
- join a forward-looking, friendly team while collaborating with colleagues around the world to drive results you're proud of;
- develop your knowledge and skills through structured learning and development opportunities in our supportive culture;
- be supported by a strong network of supervisors, buddies, and mentors to develop your confidence and identify your own personal and professional goals;
- have a dedicated early careers programme manager who will work with you to ensure your journey on the programme reflects your career aspirations;
- be part of an international early careers community of talented colleagues who’ll become part of your global network;
- have opportunities to engage with initiatives beyond your role, including getting involved with our people networks, legal tech, sustainability and pro bono work;
- enjoy a working environment where your wellbeing is always a priority and your workload is managed so you can always deliver your best; and
- emerge from the programme not just as a qualified lawyer, but as a global business advisor equipped to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving world.
You’ll have the freedom to discover your own path and make an extraordinary impact beyond the borders of traditional law. Tomorrow’s legal industry can’t hire yesterday’s skills.
Unlock your potential and start building a different kind of legal career.
Accessibility
At DLA Piper, we are committed to making reasonable adjustments and removing disability-related barriers. This is so everyone, irrespective of a visible or non-visible disability, neurodivergence, a long-term health condition or injury, has an equitable opportunity to succeed in our recruitment process.
If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please get in touch with our Early Careers team and we will be happy to support you.
We understand that sharing your needs with us may feel daunting. We will have an open discussion with you about what will work best for you in the recruitment process, and you only need to share what you feel comfortable with. Our team will ensure that the information you provide will be treated confidentially. The information will only be shared with others involved in the process, on your approval, and where necessary.
We will use the information you share to put adjustments in place for you at any stage, or at multiple stages, of the recruitment process. This is to enable you to perform to the best of your ability, and to have an equitable opportunity to perform and thrive.
Daisy Wong, Associate, Hong Kong
At DLA Piper, I feel encouraged to think creatively about ways to contribute to the team and the wider firm. This includes engaging in substantive client work, contributing to business development events, and participating in legal technology initiatives.
Nicholas Chan, Trainee Solicitor, Hong Kong
DLA Piper has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone to take on more responsibility to develop my professional and legal skills.
Jessica Chow, Associate, Hong Kong
DLA Piper's culture is supportive and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and open communication. The work here is exciting and challenging and no day is the same.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your questions,
answered
Yes. You will have the opportunity to apply for any international or client secondments available during your training contract.
You'll complete four, six-month rotations in our practice groups. These rotational experiences are designed to give you access to the most interesting work across our different areas of legal practice, broadening your knowledge, skills and network. We'll work with you to understand your preferences for each rotation, and you'll be doing work you're proud of.
Each trainee has a dedicated early careers programme manager who will meet with them at the mid point of each rotation. During this meeting, upcoming rotation preferences are discussed and recorded.
We typically recruit trainees through the summer internship, but we may at times recruit outside of the internship programme.
Our summer internship programme is a fantastic way to get to experience working at DLA Piper. It will help you to get to know our firm and our people. The three-week internship will give you a strong understanding of our values and what we stand for and whether DLA Piper and its practice groups are right for you. At the end of the summer internship, you'll be assessed for a place on our international training programme (training contract) in the office where you complete your internship.
Life at DLA Piper
Our culture empowers everyone to be themselves and reach their full potential. With the resources to seize opportunities, discover your path, and realise our potential together, see how we support you.
Innovation
Law& combines law and innovation to create value, delivering efficient legal services and unlocks transformative change. Join our creative, growing team to help leaders harness innovation and efficiency to achieve their goals together.
Job Search
Explore career opportunities across our international locations, find your perfect role, and join a team where innovation, diversity, and growth are at the heart of everything we do.