Life at Latham & Watkins: Culture, Values & Scheme Insights

Latham has a stimulating and engaging culture, which I found evident throughout the vacation scheme. From the interactive practice area talks to the thoughtfully designed research tasks, the scheme challenged us and introduced us to new, technical areas of the law. The firm’s culture centers on its people — demonstrated right off the bat by the handwritten cards each of us received to welcome us to the scheme. The firm invests substantially in our growth into exceptional lawyers through comprehensive training, hands-on learning, and mentorship.

During my two weeks in the office, I was struck by how Latham lawyers and staff unite through a pursuit of excellence while maintaining a sense of camaraderie and approachability. I experienced this combination of skill and character in my interactions with individuals of all levels, particularly during candid discussions with my supervisors and their colleagues. Having gained an initial understanding of life at Latham during an autumn open day, the vacation scheme allowed me to delve deeper. Some of the most valuable conversations I had revolved around how lawyers effectively manage their time and continue to enjoy their roles during demanding periods. I found it insightful to learn about the ways Latham lawyers find their practice rewarding and maintain their lives outside work. Their honest communication was one of the many aspects that convinced me that Latham is the firm I want to train with.

Latham is committed to exceptional, unwavering client service, achieved through outstanding ability, ambition, and global collaboration. In the first seminar of the scheme, partner Jeremy Green explained how these values are embodied within and across Latham’s offices, reflecting a truly unified ethos. I observed this throughout the fortnight, particularly during a call with several European offices during my first week in the Tax Department, demonstrating that collaboration is a genuine practice at Latham.

The social events during the first week included a pizza feast, a networking event, and a walk through the city to attend Six: The Musical. The walk to the theatre provided an opportunity to connect with fellow vacation schemers and the recruitment team, while the show itself provided a delightful break from our research tasks. Toward the end of the scheme, we went for a lovely dinner with the recruitment team, as well as associates and partners from the Recruiting Committee. The dinner allowed us to unwind and connect with those we had built relationships with, offering a sociable way to conclude the scheme.