Law · 9-12% acceptance rate

Herbert Smith Freehills Interview Preparation

Global leader in disputes and energy with rising U.S. prominence

3,200+

Applications

9-12%

Offer rate

$225k

Starting salary

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Application process

How to get into Herbert Smith Freehills — step by step

1

Application & Resume

Year-round

Highlight litigation, disputes, arbitration, or energy/infrastructure experience. Mention any international dispute resolution knowledge.

2

OCI Interview

September-November

Expect questions about dispute resolution strategies, energy sector matters, and Herbert Smith Freehills' market position. Show interest in litigation/disputes.

3

Callback Interviews

October-December

Meet 5-6 lawyers across disputes, energy, and corporate groups. Discuss litigation strategy, arbitration procedures, and complex matters.

4

Summer Associate Program

June-August

Herbert Smith Freehills offers summers. Work on real disputes, arbitration matters, and energy transactions with mentor partners.

5

Full-Time Offer

August

Strong performance typically leads to conversion.

Interview questions

Herbert Smith Freehills interview questions by round

Questions change at every stage. Know what to expect.

  • 1Explain the discovery process in U.S. federal litigation and its role in case strategy.
  • 2Describe the key stages of international arbitration from claim to enforcement.
  • 3What factors influence whether a party pursues litigation versus arbitration?

What they value

What Herbert Smith Freehills looks for in candidates

Disputes Acumen

Herbert Smith Freehills is a disputes leader. Show understanding of litigation, arbitration, and dispute strategy.

Energy & Infrastructure Expertise

The firm has deep energy practice. Understanding of energy sector dynamics, project structures, and infrastructure law is valuable.

Analytical Depth

Disputes require sophisticated legal and factual analysis. Demonstrate strong reasoning and ability to master complex matters.

Strategic Thinking

Dispute resolution involves strategy and risk assessment. Show business-focused thinking and ability to advise clients on case outcomes.

International Orientation

Herbert Smith Freehills is global with strong international disputes practice. Show interest in cross-border matters and arbitration.

Compensation

Herbert Smith Freehills salary & benefits

Graduate

$225,000

Intern

$3,850/week (summer associate, prorated ~$190k)

Bonus

$25k-$40k+ (varies by practice and year)

Perks & benefits

Comprehensive health & dental coverage401(k) matchingUnlimited CLE budgetInternational secondment opportunitiesWellness and flexible work programs

Culture & work style

What it's actually like to work at Herbert Smith Freehills

Disputes leadership: Herbert Smith Freehills is a top-tier disputes firm globally. Access to cutting-edge litigation and arbitration expertise.
Sector strength: Deep specialization in energy, resources, and infrastructure disputes. Industry expertise combined with legal excellence.
Global integration: With offices across major dispute and energy markets, HSF handles truly international matters.
Collaborative environment: Despite disputes focus, culture emphasizes teamwork, mentorship, and professional development.
Growth trajectory: Expanding U.S. platform presents opportunities for rapid career advancement and visibility.

Insider tips

How to stand out at Herbert Smith Freehills

1

Research Herbert Smith Freehills' disputes and energy practices. Understand the firm's market leadership and recent major arbitrations.

2

Show awareness of international arbitration procedures and major dispute resolution frameworks.

3

Discuss a recent significant arbitration or litigation matter that impressed you.

4

Highlight any litigation, arbitration, or disputes experience. Even mock trial or moot court participation helps.

5

Express genuine interest in disputes law and energy sector matters, not just corporate practice.

Compare

Herbert Smith Freehills vs competitors

FirmSalaryHoursCultureExit opps
Herbert Smith Freehills$225,000—/weekDisputes leadership: Herbert Smith Freeh...—
White & Case$225k2,000-2,200/yearGlobal leader in international arbitration and project finance.Energy/infrastructure in-house, arbitration practices, multilateral orgs.
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer$225k2,000-2,100/yearMagic Circle with strong disputes and energy practices.Energy majors in-house, multinational corporate counsel, arbitrators.
Latham & Watkins$225k2,000-2,200/yearGlobal firm with disputes, energy, and project finance capabilities.Energy/infrastructure counsel, litigation boutiques, in-house.
Hogan Lovells$225k2,000-2,200/yearMulti-practice firm with strong regulatory and disputes capabilities.Energy sector counsel, government positions, corporate development.

FAQ

Herbert Smith Freehills FAQs

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