About this programme
Explore the intersection between law and business. Develop the foundation of skills you need for a global legal career. You’ll do all this, and more, on our six-week summer school in our offices in Germany.
This isn’t just a chance to shadow our lawyers. You’ll play a real role in our teams and take on responsibility from day one. Whether attending court hearings, working with clients or developing your professional network, you’ll experience the cutting edge of the legal sector. You'll discover how law can unlock potential around the world and in your own career. That includes seeing how a purpose-led organisation makes a difference through pro bono work and sustainability commitments.
The programme provides you with the opportunity to discover if a career in an international law firm is the right fit for you. Familiarise yourself with your practice group and give your career the best platform to develop and enhance your skills.
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for people from a diverse range of backgrounds who have the potential to thrive at our firm.
Self-motivated and highly driven
You are proactive and strive for excellence. You pursue goals with purpose and determination, whether working independently or as part of a team.
Excitement for international law and business
You are curious about global legal developments, regulatory shifts and geopolitical trends.
Strong collaborator with social awareness
You are an excellent communicator, active listener and team player who contributes to an inclusive, supportive work environment.
Entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to challenge the norm
You think creatively, embrace new ideas and challenge conventional approaches. You thrive in challenging environments and aim to excel.
Ability to think critically, adapt and take ownership
You have an ability to assess situations from multiple perspectives, adapt quickly to change and take responsibility for delivering exceptional results.
Growth mindset, seeing setbacks as opportunities
You are resilient, reflective, and always eager to learn, leveraging setbacks as an opportunity to sharpen your thinking.
Julia Frey, Senior Associate, Corporate, Cologne
I strive to be a mentor and role model for our trainees. My aim is to ensure they feel recognised at DLA Piper and receive support for their individual needs.
Philipp Gudert, Senior Associate Employment, Hamburg
Having worked at DLA Piper as a Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter, Referendar, Associate and now as a Senior Associate in employment law, I never felt like the new person for even a single day; I was immediately part of the team.
STORIES HUB
Application advice, tips, and resources
High performance starts with a supportive team: In conversation with Aimee Harper
Aimee Harper, an Associate in Finance, reflects on how collaboration, collective experience and a supportive team drive high performance, personal growth and exceptional outcomes for clients.
The path to partnership: Manuel Indelkofer’s journey
Dr. Manuel Indelkofer reflects on his journey from junior associate to partner, sharing how his approach to leadership has evolved and what aspiring partners need to succeed.
Be bold enough to ask: Gigi Lockhart on shaping your career
Senior Associate Gigi Lockhart shares how stepping beyond her role and taking on new challenges helped her shape her career and build relationships across DLA Piper’s international network.
The mindset that drives high performance, with Drew Moss
Drew Moss, Head of Talent, explores how mindset, feedback, resilience and wellbeing work together to drive sustainable high performance.
Be curious about what comes next, with Joanne Conway
From taking stretch assignments to embracing change, Joanne's path to Head of Inclusion for EMEA and APAC shows how progress happens when you’re willing to ask, learn and step up.
What makes DLA Piper different? A conversation with Peter Somekh
Peter Somekh, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa, shares how a culture of challenge and collaboration has shaped his career, and continues to push him to grow.
What a Solicitor Apprenticeship can offer: Alix Leatherday's career journey
Alix Leatherday chose the Solicitor Apprenticeship route, combining global exposure with practical training inside our Manchester office. From day one, she's earning her degree while working on high-profile matters that count.
A day in the life of a Solicitor Apprentice, with Sophie Kenny
To mark National Apprenticeship Week, Sophie gives us a glimpse into her role in the Leeds office. Now in her fourth year, she’s working with lawyers across the globe and gaining hands-on legal experience, all while earning her degree.
What does global mean at DLA Piper?
From London to Johannesburg, our people deliver work that crosses borders, industries, and expectations, because ambition without limits needs a global platform.
Discovery Days, unlocked
Our Discovery Days give you real insight into the work, the people, and the pace of DLA Piper.
From Summer Intern to Associate: Mihir’s journey
For Mihir Joshi, joining DLA Piper felt like a natural step – from Intern to Associate, he's seen the values stay consistent while the opportunities keep expanding.
A day in the life of a summer intern, with Ammar
As a summer intern, Ammar has been immersed in complex, high-impact work – building confidence, gaining clarity and discovering his potential in the process.
What makes DLA Piper different? Insights from Alyson Eather
Partner Alyson Eather reflects on the global opportunities, varied experiences and supportive culture that have shaped her career.
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, inclusion, and growth are at the heart of everything we do.