A&O Shearman
London·New York
Banking & finance·Corporate·M&A
Allen & Overy's 2024 merger with Shearman & Sterling created a genuine transatlantic giant, combining Magic Circle strength with a top Wall Street name. Trainees can spend a seat in an international office or on client secondment.
Why this firm
One of the largest law firm mergers in history
One of the largest law firm mergers in history, combining Allen & Overy with Shearman & Sterling into a single transatlantic firm
A genuinely deep bench across banking & finance, corporate and M&A, built from two firms' client relationships rather than one
Trainees can spend a seat in an international office or on client secondment
What this firm looks for
Drawn from A&O Shearman's own recruitment materials
Based on the firm's published recruitment materials, graduate recruitment commentary and stated values.
Change Agility
Part of A&O Shearman's own named "Lawyer of the Future" assessment framework: defined as adaptability ("you're able to take on whatever comes your way and work effectively in changing circumstances"), innovation, and intellectual curiosity.
People Agility
The second pillar of the Lawyer of the Future framework: collaboration ("you build positive relationships and work effectively with others to reach desired outcomes"), emotional intelligence, and communication skills.
Solutions Agility
The framework's delivery-focused pillar: organisation ("you can effectively plan and prioritise work to meet deadlines while showing a strong attention to detail"), drive, resilience, and technology awareness.
Past applications
Real material for A&O Shearman
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Interview Preparation
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