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Home > Lawyer Recruitment > Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recruitment process?
On receipt your application is copied and sent to your
department of choice. They sift the applications and successful
applicants are invited to interview. The interview stage has two
parts: the first is a written test which is one hour long; the second
part is an interview, which also lasts about 45 minutes.

What is the format of the written test and may I have a copy of
a previous example?
The written test is a short exercise designed to test your skills
of analysis and legal awareness. You will normally be asked to
write a piece of advice to a Minister and/or senior client based
upon the information provided. All of the required legal information
(i.e. regulations or statutes) is provided with the question. It is not
possible to provide examples of previous questions.

Who carries out the interview?
The interview panel will be made up of three people; an
independent, experienced Chair, usually a non-lawyer; a lawyer
from the department to which you have applied; and a lawyer from
another GLS department.

Can you tell me more about the interview?
The selection process is intended to give as full a picture as
possible of your legal, analytical and communication skills. As well
as discussion of the written exercise, the interview covers general
legal issues, previous experience and the job for which you have
applied. Interviews are generally held in central London.

How long will it take until I am in post?
The length of time until you take up an offered post will depend
upon a number of factors e.g. your notice period, the length of
time to obtain references and any other eligibility and security
clearance(s). We like candidates to be in post as soon as possible.

Please download the following PDF (91 kb) for more frequently asked questions regarding Lawyer Recruitment in the GLS