Vinson & Elkins
London·Houston
Energy·Oil & gas·M&A
Named 'The World's Leading Energy Law Firm' by Euromoney since 1995, V&E's early lawyers famously took shares in risky oil ventures instead of cash fees, a bet on the industry that defined the firm.
Why this firm
Once took equity instead of fees from oil wildcatters
Named 'The World's Leading Energy Law Firm' by Euromoney every year since 1995
Early lawyers famously took equity instead of cash fees from oil wildcatters, a genuine bet on the industry that defined the firm
A non-rigid seat system: trainees gain experience across multiple practice areas simultaneously rather than one department at a time
What this firm looks for
Drawn from Vinson & Elkins's own recruitment materials
Based on the firm's published recruitment materials, graduate recruitment commentary and stated values.
Common sense, explicitly named
Training principal Scott Stiegler says he wants candidates willing to take responsibility and have a go, but who also have common sense, which he calls actually quite a rare quality, despite the name.
"Would I want to share an office with you?"
Stiegler's stated interview test is self-confidence without arrogance and genuine interpersonal connection, framed literally as whether he'd want the candidate as an office-mate, reflecting V&E's small London cohort where colleagues work closely together.
Genuine, specific enthusiasm over polish
Interviews include presenting on one of three pre-set topics, and Stiegler says uniqueness matters less than authentic passion. He cites candidates talking enthusiastically about hang gliding or poetry as equally valid to firm-related topics.
Past applications
Real material for Vinson & Elkins
These examples are for structure and inspiration. Your application should remain your own.
Nothing saved for Vinson & Elkins yet. Once you save application material against this firm, it appears here so you can come back to it.
Track Vinson & Elkins alongside every other application, and keep research like this to hand while you draft.
Start free