
Junior Associate
Kateřina Barcalová
AT DLA PIPER SINCE
2024
CURRENT LOCATION
Prague
AREA OF EXPERTISE
Corporate
Why did you choose to work at DLA Piper?
DLA Piper offers a unique opportunity to work alongside highly skilled professionals in a global environment.
I joined the firm as a student, and after completing my studies, I continued my career here. Once I finished my studies, DLA Piper was the natural next step for professional growth in a supportive, challenging environment. When I joined DLA Piper, the firm's reputation for excellence in corporate law, especially in mergers and acquisitions, really attracted me. This is the area I'm passionate about and wanted to specialise in. I wanted to develop in an international setting where I could learn from the best and be challenged daily. DLA Piper's supportive team culture allows me to improve my English skills while collaborating with colleagues globally. It's the perfect environment to build my career.
What have you learned from your experiences at DLA Piper?
I've learned a lot, both professionally and personally. I've gained hands-on experience in complex corporate law matters, where I've learned to work quickly, efficiently, and under pressure, especially in transactions where it's crucial to stay constantly alert. Working with experienced colleagues has taught me how to handle high-stakes cases with precision and care.
I've also improved my communication and problem-solving skills by working in an international, fast-paced environment. The firm's collaborative culture has shown me the importance of teamwork.
Do you have any advice for students aspiring to pursue a career in law?
Stay curious and embrace every opportunity to learn. For me, diving into complex cases and learning from experienced colleagues has been invaluable. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself – even if something seems difficult at first, it's through those challenges that you grow the most. It's also important to find mentors who can offer guidance and support – I've found this to be crucial in my own journey. Lastly, develop good time-management skills early on, as law can be fast-paced and staying organised is key to balancing the tasks that come your way.