Graduate Recruitment
Meet our people
Thomas Stansfield - Solicitor
Finance and projects
Political Studies, Leeds University
Why did you join DLA Piper?
I chose DLA Piper because its rapid evolution to a global law firm impressed me when researching prospective law firms. With its positive 'can do' attitude and belief in the deliverance of excellence to clients, I felt it was a firm in which I could best pursue my own legal ambitions.
What have you found to be most challenging so far?
Sometimes managing the relationship between client expectations and what is 'legally achievable' can be difficult. With the firm's belief in tailoring the legal product to clients' objectives, through understanding their needs, you sometimes have to think creatively which is stimulating but also challenging.
What’s the social life like?
With so many positive and bright people in the firm, the social scene is great. The departments you sit in and the firm as a whole run events and evenings out. There are also sporting teams. I played football for DLA Piper in the corporate games this summer down in Brighton which was a good weekend.
How much support have you received?
The support I've received from partners, fee-earners, support staff and fellow trainees is perhaps one of the firm's greatest assets. I have been given insightful and comprehensive advice and been assisted by support staff readily whenever I have needed it. It has certainly aided in my personal and legal development during my two-year training contract.
What’s the best thing about the city you live in?
London is the best city in the world. Not only is it the centre of global finance but the diverse make-up and creative industries within it means there is always something to do, whether that be watching football at Stamford Bridge, cricket at the Oval, gigs at Brixton Academy, theatre at the Globe, shopping in the West End, or exploring the many historic sights that are spread across the city.
Best/worst moments?
Best – working in Tanzania on a project finance deal.
Worst – none.
