discern the difference. take the lead. - graduate...

Discern the Difference. Take the Lead.

Deacons Graduate Opportunities

deacons.com.hk/graduaterecruitment

Welcome,Our Future Colleagues.

It’s always a pleasure to meet new graduates each year.

Every graduate is different – with different backgrounds, capabilities and aspirations. This is the way we like it, because we know that the combined strengths of individuals will make us succeed as a firm in years ahead.

We invite the brightest and the best who have the right qualities to succeed at Deacons to join us. Whilst we set very high standards in recruitment, we are very proud of the top quality training and opportunities that we are able to offer to our trainees.

At Deacons everybody shines in one way or another. We do work that we enjoy. We take pride in our professionalism and ability to resolve challenging issues and cases. This is a place where you will be rewarded for your ambition and commitment. A number of our partners launched their career at Deacons as a trainee. You may be one of them too.

As a newcomer there might be times when you will make the odd error and feel the pressure of expectation. This will help you learn. However, most of the time you will feel confident, valued, and rewarded.

This recruitment brochure is designed to assist you in making the right decision to the first major question in your legal career. We want to recruit the right people, but we also want you to be sure that we are right for you. Within these pages, our colleagues will help you get to know us.

Alwyn Li , Charmaine Koo, Alfred Tam, Cynthia Chung, Rhoda Yung Graduate Recruitment Committee

Lilian joined Deacons in 1979 as a trainee after receiving her Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Hong Kong. She qualified into the Property practice and became the firm’s partner in 1987.

deacons.com.hk/graduaterecruitment

Contents 04 08

16 26

48Getting to Know Deacons

Our Intellectual Power

Our Commitment to Ongoing Professional and Personal Development

Our Distinctive Graduate Recruitment Programme

Our Scale, Prestige and Full Service Platform

What make us different ?

It has been my good fortune to have joined Deacons in 1979 as a trainee. It provided me with good training as well as a sound foundation for a career filled with interest and challenge.

Deacons is not only the oldest but is also the largest independent full service law firm in Hong Kong. Whilst we focus on quality to provide the best legal services in Hong Kong, we operate in a congenial and friendly culture.

The success of the firm ultimately rests on its solicitors. Thus, one of our priority concerns is to attract the best trainees and to provide them with properly structured training in different specialities and the best environment where hard work and positive results are rewarded.

With the ever changing legal environment, difficult challenges lie ahead but with the quality of our people, we are very well positioned to meet the challenges. If you are committed to adhere to the highest standards, you are welcome to join our team.

Lilian ChiangSenior Partner

Meet the Challenges

04 05 deacons.com.hk/graduaterecruitment

Our Scale, Prestige and Full Service Platform

make us different

We are the oldest and the largest independent, full service law firm in Hong Kong. We are also the first foreign law firm with three licensed offices in mainland China.


The Deacons Difference

Whether you are doing business in Hong Kong for the first time, or understand its business environment perfectly, it is still good to know that you are in safe hands. It is good to know, for example, that Deacons is the largest full-service independent law firm in Hong Kong, as well as the longest established.

Since 1851 we have been developing a unique culture, which blends traditional client care with modern technology and working practices. Our integrity and dedication to the highest service standards is matched by our cosmopolitan nature and commitment to innovation. Deacons’ clients receive:

It is no surprise that our achievements have been recognised by respected publications, such as Chambers Asia-Pacific and Asian Legal Business, including being voted ‘Hong Kong’s Law Firm of the Year’ and ‘Employer of Choice’ on numerous occasions.

What really matters to us, however, is what our clients think. And they tell us that what they appreciate most is our ability to understand their businesses and time pressures, and to act as ‘trusted advisors’ in helping them to take crucial business decisions.

Top quality advice in 16 key service areas

Access to the experience of our 50 partners and 200 lawyers

The resources of our international networks

Three representative offices in mainland China

The benefit of our deep knowledge of, and relationships with, Hong Kong’s business community, built up over many years

Full Service Platform

• Banking & Finance• Capital Markets• China Trade &

Investment• Competition• Construction• Corporate and M&A• Employment &

Pensions• Insolvency &

Restructuring• Insurance• Intellectual Property• Investment Funds• Litigation & Dispute

Resolution• Private Clients• Real Estate• Regulatory• Tax


Our Commitment to Ongoing Professional and Personal Development

makes us different

No matter if you are a trainee solicitor or a qualified lawyer, we view your professional development as part of a continuum. From day to day, you will work closely with lawyers, many of whom are acknowledged leaders in their fields, to gain practical experience.


Our Learning Solutions Deacons Academy

Seat Rotation

Rotate through four practice groups during your two years of training, giving you a wide spectrum of opportunities to learn and grow. Orientation Week

Experience a hands-on orientation programme that will introduce you to the firm, our culture, our people, and the technology and research techniques that we use. Technical Skills Training

Participate in over 100 in-house CPD courses in substantive legal subjects, providing you with the skills and knowledge to excel in your work. Practice Group Meeting

Participate in regular practice group meetings in formal or informal settings, giving you a chance to learn, share and mingle with members of your own and other practice groups. Ongoing Mentor Meeting

Meet with mentors to obtain business and career guidance during and after your traineeship.

Deacons Academy is an educational segment of Deacons specialised in training and development.

We believe training makes the difference.

Five broad pillars:Taking a modular approach, Deacons Academy offers a world-class programme to build confidence and develop skills of our lawyers across a number of key areas, including people management and leadership, client relationship skills, and commercial acumen. Numerous studies continue to show the positive link between structured professional development support and increased performance and career progression. Deacons Academy provides a foundation approach to support the sustainable growth of talent – equipping our lawyers with the necessary skills as they take on the next level of responsibility – from Trainee Solicitor to Associate, Associate to Senior Associate, and from Senior Associate to Partner. The quality of our facilitators is important. That is why our trainers are rigorously chosen based on their knowledge, skills and experience in training and group animation. Deacons Academy has developed an extensive network of internal professionals and external training partners to meet the every need of our lawyers.

People Engagement

Business Development

Risk Management

Commercial Acumen

Personal Qualities

12345


Our Life

We welcome diversity. It is the diversity that helps us recruit, motivate and retain talented people from different backgrounds, life experiences and perspectives.

We value different gender, faith, age, race, sexual orientation, points of view, which we believe are some of the visible and invisible differences that make our people unique.

We promote creativity, inclusion, openness and fairplay throughout our business. We ensure all our staff, clients and stakeholders are treated fairly with respect and dignity.

Because of our insistence on diversity, we are able to deliver a variety of best-in-class solutions to our diverse client base and cope with the business challenges in this competitive world.

Working in Teams

Teamwork matters. People here actively share responsibility and work together to achieve their goals. No matter you are a partner or a trainee, your voice will be heard. Our open and congenial environment fosters real teamwork and helps ensure individual contributions are recognised and rewarded.

Social

We are not just specialists in our individual legal practices. People at Deacons are also well-rounded individuals.

On joining Deacons, you will become part of a dynamic firm. Throughout the year you will have a chance to take part in events arranged by the firm, within your practice and by Deacons Social Circle. We run a wide variety of events from office market place, photography classes, bakery classes, ice cream days, movie nights, race nights to themed annual dinner. For sport fans, you can compete in the firm’s golf day, bowling night and several other similar events.

Employer of Choice

When it comes to employer recognition, we are also ahead of the pack. Deacons continues to be a recognised employer in the legal industry and we are very proud to have been voted one of the Employers of Choice in Hong Kong for 2016, making this the fifth year running the firm has been selected. This award is recognition of the job satisfaction, remuneration, work-life balance, career prospects, mentorship, job security and other aspects that we have. It also reflects what people think about working at Deacons.

Whisky AppreciationBakery Class

Trainee Team Building Day


As Hong Kong’s oldest independent law firm, we have long recognised the importance of giving back to our community. We encourage everyone at all levels of the firm to play an active role in community activities ranging from giving pro bono advice to supporting local charities.

Deacons Cares is a firmwide initiative that embraces a range of important causes and key community projects spanning education, environmental sustainability, and health & wellbeing.

Educational initiatives

At Deacons, we recognise that the future of our community will depend upon its younger members, so a strong commitment to education is vital. That’s where our ABCs of Law initiative comes in. Working closely with the Hans Andersen Club, we created an education programme specially designed to help children in Hong Kong to develop their knowledge of the justice system and understand their rights and obligations as members of Hong Kong’s community.

As a corporate citizen, our success carries the responsibility to give something back to the community that we are part of.

Commitment to Community

Deacons’ vacation students are also committed to community involvement.

Vacation students are invited by the firm to involve themselves in a day of community service for non-profit organisations during

their internship placement. It aims to provide an opportunity for the vacation students to serve the community and enrich their life

experience. The Vacation Student Community Project is an extension of the firm’s

long-standing commitment to community involvement.

Deacons’ scholarship programme

Our focus on education also extends to longstanding scholarship programme stretching back to the 1980s. In recent years, Deacons collaborated with the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong on an exciting project to launch the Deacons Prize in Law for Young Leaders. Awarded to students in the early stages of their studies, this initiative offers both internship opportunities at Deacons and financial support to help talented young people embarking on a promising legal career.

Protecting the environment

Protecting the environment is a priority for us and our community. Deacons works closely with a number of key environmental organisations to raise awareness of green issues and the importance of building a greener world for future generations.

Our No Shark Fin corporate pledge to WWF Hong Kong – a commitment not to trade, promote, consume or serve shark fin at any of our corporate functions – is just one of Deacons’ initiatives connected with conserving the marine environment. We also organise regular eco-tours for our staff, enabling them to visit or volunteer at key conservation sites.

Giving

Many of our initiatives are intended to provide long-term benefits to our community, but we understand that sometimes immediate action is needed. Deacons and its employees regularly provide much needed donations to a variety of good causes in Hong Kong and China.

This includes our ongoing support for Operation Santa Claus, the annual charity campaign organised by the South China Morning Post and Radio Television Hong Kong.

Our community giving campaign encourages our staff to donate unwanted items, such as computers, clothes and books, to charities across Hong Kong and China, while the firm’s dragon boat team also raises essential funds for local charities.

Community involvement

Supporting the local community is a core value of our Deacons Cares initiative and we arrange a number of schemes that allow our staff to participate in community care and development programmes.

Health & Wellbeing

A strong commitment to the wellbeing of our staff is integral to Deacons’ culture. As well as being something that we promote on an ongoing basis, our annual Health Week helps raise awareness among members of staff and their families of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. The event includes a whole range of opportunities to learn more about health and wellbeing.

Flower Arrangement with Hong Chi Association

Outreach Day with Food Angel Blood Donation Day

The ABCs of Law

The ABCs of Law


Our Distinctive Graduate Recruitment Programme

makes us different

We think you can go far at Deacons. From the outset, you will be part of our team and expected to rise to the challenge. Under our structured programme, you will be given plenty of exciting opportunities and responsibilities to work with the law and clients in real business situations, during which your best attributes will shine through.


Discover the Right Firm andLaunch Your Career

If you have the desire and drive to work as a solicitor in the legal industry, Deacons is the best place to begin.

At Deacons, training is carefully structured and designed to provide you with variety and intellectual challenge during each of your career steps. While your most important professional growth takes place on the job, there will also be continuing training and programmes to give you new skills and essential knowledge to excel in your job.

We understand that legal career is a marathon, not a sprint. To attract and retain the best we nurture our people to become legal talent of tomorrow through a culture that is congenial and inclusive, where people’s capacity to initiate is fully engaged, enabling exceptional drive, contribution and satisfaction. It is a place where people feel respected, work as a team and can achieve their personal and professional goals.

It is an honour to work at Deacons. Come and discern the difference.

Qualities We Look For

You will take pride in your role, meet the challenges, work in a team, drive for excellence and build relationships, with clients and colleagues, with integrity and trust.

Most importantly, people here are doing something they love and enjoy. This commitment drives them to deliver extraordinary client service and be proud to be part of our team.

Our requirements are stringent. People have joined us from very different backgrounds but they have many qualities in common.

Be an exceptional academic achiever

Be passionate about law

Be analytical and

organised

With a business mindset

Be a strong communicator

Be a team player

With integrity

Our Trainee and Vacation Student Programmes will ensure that you are

prepared to join our prestigious team the moment you walk through the door.

Apply Now


Trainee Programme

LL.B. / combined law degree from universities in a Common law jurisdiction

HK JD degree / GDL / CPE students

Graduates

Apply during the penultimate year of your degree

Apply as soon as you receive your law results

Apply at any time

Application Process

Requirements• You are expected to graduate with a 2(i) honours degree (or an overseas equivalent)

or above• Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) / combined law degree students from universities in a

Common law jurisdiction• Hong Kong Juris Doctor ( JD) degree students• Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) / Common Professional Examination (CPE) students

How to Apply

Apply online at www.deacons.com.hk/graduaterecruitment

When to Apply

Please apply at least two years before the commencement date of the training contract you desire

An excellent start of your career journey.

Orientation Familiarise yourself with our firm, people, systems and job.

Start Training in one of our Practice Areas Your interest and preference will be taken into account.

Additional Seats Continue your training in our other practice areas.

Associate Next challenge.

Trainee Community Participate in team exercises and receive training on substantive legal subjects.

Deacons Academy and

Qualification We have a very high retention rate.

2-year Training Contract


Vacation Student Programme Apply Now

Your passport to new adventures.

Orientation Familiarise yourself with our firm, people, systems and job.

Placement Be placed in one of our diverse practice areas.

Training, Team Building & Community Involvement Immerse yourself in experiential learning and community service.

Assessment Be assessed for a training contract as part of the programme.

Mentoring Be paired up with a trainee or associate buddy who answers your questions and looks out for your well-being.

Presentation An opportunity to make a difference and network with people within our firm.

LL.B. / combined law degree from universities in a Common law jurisdiction

HK JD degree / GDL / CPE students

Summer Placement:• June• July

Winter Placement:• December to January

Apply on or before 1 February

Apply on or before 1 October in the preceding year

Two Placements & Three Batches

Apply during the penultimate year of your degree

Apply as soon as you receive your law results

4-week Placement

Application Process

Requirements• You should consider yourself applying for a trainee position and therefore similar

requirements for a trainee position apply

How to Apply

Apply online at www.deacons.com.hk/graduaterecruitment

When to Apply


Deacons Prize in Law for

Young LeadersIt is never too early to launch a career you want.

The Deacons Prize in Law for Young Leaders is a pipeline for students who are in their early years of legal studies to a myriad of career possibilities at one of the region’s oldest and most respected law firms. The prize includes internship opportunities, as well as monetary awards. Each year all eligible second year LL.B. students will be invited by the faculty to apply for the prize and the recipients will be selected by a Selection Committee to become part of the Deacons Prize in Law for Young Leaders. We will work closely with the selected students and help them develop their career interests and lawyer skills, as well as guiding them for the recruitment process ahead.

To participate in Deacons Prize in Law for Young Leaders, you will need to demonstrate academic intelligence, participation in extra-curricular activities, community involvement and a serious interest in the legal profession.

The Experience

Held every summer, the Deacons Prize in Law for Young Leaders Programme offers selected students:

• an internship at the firm for two weeks which includes specific work assignments and on-the-job training in one of our various practice groups under the supervision of the firm’s graduate recruitment partners

• a support network of buddies and the graduate recruitment team to assist in assimilation into a law firm environment during the internship

• career advice throughout the internship

This is an ideal opportunity for you to get a real sense of what we do day-to-day and to discover if working at a leading law firm, and at Deacons in particular, is right for you. You will be inspired to become one of our future lawyers.

Your Eligibility

The Programme is open to top second year LL.B. students who are interested in launching a legal career with us. Students will be invited by the faculty to apply for the prize during the academic year.

The Benefits

It is not just about receiving a cash prize and an internship, as a prize recipient you will have the opportunity to build your professional network, gain practical experience, obtain career advice and be exposed to acknowledged lawyers in their fields that will enhance your overall vacation experience.


Our Intellectual Power

makes us different

The career door at Deacons is not open to everyone but to those who have an ambition in law and possess the right qualities. Once the door is opened, chances come. Many of our trainees join us as vacation students. A significant portion of our partners progressed from trainees.


James Tong

I chose Deacons

I chose Deacons mainly based on three reasons: a broad spectrum of practice areas, dynamic environment, and an active lifestyle. Internships are often quite short and you may not be able to identify an area of interest, therefore exposing yourself to various practices and keeping an open mind during the training period are important. Deacons has a truly collegial culture with an open door policy which makes learning more effective. Lastly, at Deacons, it is not only about researching on case laws and endless drafting, but there are also ample opportunities to partake in social, networking and community activities.

What makes Deacons distinctive

Everything is about chemistry. I still vividly remember the magical moment when I was impressed by Deacons. It was at Deacons’ Open Day when I was enjoying myself with the wide variety of delicacies during cocktail reception, a partner at Deacons approached me and introduced herself. I briefly asked some cliché questions but she then started sharing her own experience with such enthusiasm that I would hardly have expected from someone who had just come back from a business trip and at almost the end of the business day. The vigour and dynamism within the firm is what I really admire and would love to be a part of.

My encounter with Deacons

Deacons has a fairly structured internship programme with a professional recruitment process. If you are looking for mere work experience, Deacons may not be the right place because there are many other cool things which you will have the opportunity to join together with the intern mates, like dragon boat race, team presentation and ice cream day. Buddies and partners are approachable and are always willing to teach. I was a plain paper when I joined as intern but they have certainly filled it up with colours!

Trainee Solicitor 2017

The University of Hong Kong – Bachelor of Laws

The University of Hong Kong – Bachelor of Business Administration (Law)

Joined Deacons as a Vacation Student in 2015

Are you the one?

Whenever you come across issues especially regarding instructions which you are uncertain, ask the right questions to clarify them; otherwise time will be wasted if it goes down the wrong path. Besides, be your true self is vital as it facilitates the two-way communication between you and the firm - internship is not only about assessments and tests of your abilities, but it is also for you to assess whether the firm is your “best fit”.

In choosing between law firms, my advice is to try talk to as many people as possible. The next stage is to gain first-hand experience, then trust yourself and make a move. Be sure to analyse and process the secondary information obtained from others, as those other people are not going to do the job for you. Choose the firm you want to work at but not the one just because you want to say you work at.

8:45am

A Day in the Life as a Vacation Student

James’ Story

10:00am

2015• Summer internship at Deacons

2016• Graduated from the University of Hong

Kong with a First Class Honours in LL.B.• Did my first cliff jump in Tsitsikamma

National Park

2014• Completed my first degree with a First

Class Honours in BBA (Law)• Attended exchange programme at

Hamburg

2013• Joined case competition in Seattle

2012• Learned French

2011• Entered the University of

Hong Kong as freshman

2:30pm

4:00pm

5:00pm

6:30pm

Participate in a conference call between Partner and the client to report on progress and further proposals

Meet with Trainee Buddy to discuss case file and work allocation

Present research findings and report on updates to Buddy

Attend a gym session and dinner with friends

Quick chat with Partner on the preparation of an in-house presentation

Arrive at work, check emails, and plan for the day


Bonnie Wong


King’s College London – Bachelor of Laws


I chose Deacons

People make Deacons one of the best places to work. I am attracted to the rich diversity of talents here, including a very high ratio of very talented female lawyers. Developing talented women across the entire span of their legal career seems very natural at Deacons. This inclusive culture is very appealing to me.


I worked in the Commercial Litigation practice group during my stay at Deacons. Attending meetings and having conversations with clients were most appealing to me. Hard skills such as textbook knowledge are always readily available, whereas soft skills such as networking and interpersonal skills in the legal profession require experience. The strong team culture here really suited my personality. In short, my internship was very enjoyable – both in terms of the friends whom I have made and the relationship that I have developed with different levels of people in the firm.


I found the firm has a long lasting commitment to pro bono and community work. During my internship I have particularly enjoyed being involved in an ABCs of Law project under the firm’s community initiative. This effectively strengthened the bonding among colleagues at all levels. I hope to get involved in more pro bono and community projects when I join the firm in 2017.

9:00am

A Day in the Life as a Vacation Student

Bonnie’s Story

10:00am

2015• Joined Deacons as a vacation student

2016• Graduated from King's College London and entered

City University of Hong Kong to study P.C.LL.

• Became President of Opportunity International at the University’s Pro Bono Society

2014 • Volunteered at the Hay Literary Festival in Wale

• Organised a variety show in Hong Kong with fellow university students and raised over HK$30,000 for a local charity

2013• Graduated with an International

Baccalaureate Diploma from Sevenoaks School and entered King’s College London

11:00am

1:00pm

3:00pm 7:00pm

5:00pm

Start research

Sit in Partner’s phone conversation with an overseas client and write an attendance note

Join a department lunch meeting on recent litigation law updates

Report my progress of research to the team

Prepare meeting notes on how the Partner represents the clients in a settlement Dinner with friends

Meet with Partner to get an overview of the dispute at hand

Are you the one?

The best way to choose your right fit is to experience the firm as a vacation student. Things to look at include whether the firm’s practice is in line with the areas you would like to explore as a trainee. During my internship, I was glad that I got to follow some of the substantial cases that my supervising partner has been working on, and was given responsibility such that I was contributing and learning in the process.

A tip to future applicants is to make an effort to bond with your fellow vacation students. There is no conflict between performing well on your own and building a friendship with your peers. Such bonding is in fact particularly important towards your own performance in situations like a team presentation competition.

6:00pm

Report to supervisors on my working progress


Karmen Ng

I chose Deacons

Deacons bears the impressive marks of a giant in the industry with its outstanding lawyers and established client network. Together with its emphasis on graduate development, Deacons promises quality training opportunities and exposures which are vital to laying a solid foundation of my career. Further, the scale of Deacons does not militate against its commitment to employee well-being. It is no wonder why Deacons, which numerous home-grown partners owe their loyalty to, has claimed the title of the Employer of Choice for years. How can I not wish to be part of this team?


Deacons recognises hard work and commends consistent improvements. During my stay, my efforts did not go unnoticed. I was also constantly encouraged to take on responsibility and rectify my imperfections in different aspects. Deacons also values the well-being of its members and the society. Events organised by Deacons Social Circle and Deacons Cares such as the Health Week and the ABCs of Law programme, which I gladly took part in, showed me work is not all that matters in Deacons.





My stay at Deacons as a vacation student was immensely fruitful with a great mix of exposures and challenges every day. I was assigned with substantive tasks which give me a clear picture of the operation of the practice group that I worked with. There were plenty of opportunities to interact with members of the firm who warmly welcomed me to be part of the team. The bonding established with the fellow vacation students through the team building activities was a bonus to my rewarding experience.

Are you the one?

Do not blindly follow what others say – it is always your own choice. Evaluate the basket of factors that you value such as whether the strengths of the firm match with the practice areas you want to pursue, the quality of training and the firm’s culture. Do not feel pressured or tempted to choose the largest firm with the highest salary in the industry – those mean nothing if you do not feel that you belong there or do not enjoy what you do.

Karmen’s Story

8:30am 7:00pm

A Day in the Life as a First Year Trainee

9:00am

11:00am

1:00pm

2:00pm 5:00pm

3:00pm

Attend meeting with the insured

Conduct research on liability and contributory negligence for a claim

Attend a lunch seminar on the latest case law developments

Prepare attendance note for the meeting

Draft a letter to the insured seeking further documents

Draft witness statements

Arrive at work; check emails and plan for the day

Get off work and dine out with friends

2015• Graduated from the University of Hong

Kong with a First Class Honours in LL.B.• Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

2016• Joined Deacons as a trainee solicitor• Completed P.C.LL. at the University of

Hong Kong with Distinction


2011• Entered the University of Hong Kong

as an LL.B. student• Became a Christian


Karlie Leung

I chose Deacons

I chose Deacons to embark on my legal career for its prestigious reputation and diverse practice areas. Deep-rooted in Hong Kong, Deacons has unrivalled experience in the legal field. I am certainly honoured to be part of such a highly reputable firm. With its extensive roots, it is capable of offering full-fledged legal services. This is of immense advantage for young learners like us as we benefit from exposure to diverse areas of law and incessantly absorb knowledge and experience along the way. The wide range of practice areas also allows flexibility when choosing which one to specialise in.


I am impressed with the firm’s culture of support, openness and diversity. Whenever you feel stuck at work, you are bound to find colleagues nearby to share your concerns and bring you back onto the right direction. Such collegial work environment puts me at ease and encourages me to ask questions and give opinions. The many social and networking activities allow colleagues to get to know more about each other outside work, turning Deacons more than just a workplace.


Interning at Deacons is certainly a fruitful and rewarding experience. I felt a sense of recognition throughout with opportunities to be involved in different substantive work. While faced with challenging tasks, I found myself surrounded by supportive colleagues who never reserved knowledge to themselves and gave me valuable guidance. Moreover, the vacation student scheme itself is highly structured. The one-week orientation from the start helped us blend in. We then got to interact with partners, associates and trainees from different departments in frequent firm-wide lunches and drinks. The community service under Deacons Cares certainly marked a meaningful end!


The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Bachelor of Laws


Are you the one?

Two factors mean the most to me when choosing the firm to go for – practice areas and firm culture. Given the diversity of legal landscape, it is of paramount importance to know which area of legal services a particular firm offers, and then match your interest accordingly. If the firm of interest has varied practice areas, it would be ideal for your career exposure. Firm culture is no doubt another key consideration. You should decide for yourself what kind of work environment would put you in a comfortable position in order to focus on your work.

The practice of law is no doubt an intellectually challenging one. However, you can rise to the occasion by preparing yourself for every opportunity. Fortune favours the prepared mind. More importantly, be a humble learner. Try to engage in conversations with other colleagues in the firm to learn from their insights and experiences. There is bound to be something you can learn from in everything you do.

9:00am

Karlie’s Story

10:00am

2015• Graduated from the Chinese University of

Hong Kong with a First Class Honours in LL.B.• Explored very remote islands in Okinawa to

discover off-the-beaten paths for a month

2016• Joined Deacons as a trainee solicitor• Conquered my phobia of heights while

hiking the Scottish Highlands during my solo expedition to Europe


2013• Volunteered at Yale University

in the U.S. for a month at a community reading centre

2011• Entered law school to

embark on the legal journey

11:00am

12:00nn

1:00pm

Attend client meeting with partner to go through the due diligence questionnaire

Receive instructions from partner about an IPO project

Research on similar businesses for drafting the prospectus

Attend lunch workshop organised by Deacons Academy at office

Arrive at office, check emails and prioritise my tasks to make a head start of the day

A Day in the Life as a First Year Trainee

7:00pm

5:00pm

2:30pm

Draft the “Business” and “Risk Factors” sections of the prospectus for partner’s review

Tick completed tasks off the list, wrap up and head to yoga studio for a workout

Meet with other parties of the project to gauge the progress


Michael Poon

I chose Deacons

I chose Deacons because it offers one of the most complete and thorough training programmes amongst the law firms in Hong Kong. Not only does Deacons offer a wide range of practice areas to choose from, but the partners and human resources also actively encourage trainees to explore different practice areas and to broaden their legal practice and training. Finally, I have always felt welcomed as an integral part of the team even as a trainee solicitor.


People at Deacons, regardless of their position in the firm, are all very supportive and approachable. I have had many enjoyable personal conversations with partners, associates and other trainees during the many different social events organised by the firm. There is also a very strong emphasis on your personal character and legal career development. Partners, supervisors and senior associates are all willing to entrust me with substantial responsibilities. The firm then supplements this by organising many career workshops under Deacons Academy specifically catered towards junior lawyers and providing different opportunities for us to better ourselves.


The University of Hong Kong – Juris Doctor

The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania – Bachelor of Science in Economics (Finance concentration)


Always one step ahead

Do not be afraid to make personal connections in the firm. Be willing to actively reach out to others. I have found it most rewarding to learn about the different backgrounds of my colleagues and their respective personal stories. There is such a diverse group of individuals here at Deacons that I was able to learn something new in every conversation that I have had. Since I believe that my career is so much more than just legal work, I am very grateful for the opportunity to work at such an exciting and colourful workplace like Deacons.

Unlimited opportunities and support

There is a very strong sense of community here at Deacons and, as a result of that, I have always felt supported throughout my training here. There is always guidance offered by your colleagues, your superiors and the recruitment team in case you run into any obstacles to your personal or career development. I was also never pigeon-holed into any particular practice area and have always been able to freely explore different legal fields of interest through my trainee seat selections.

9:00am

10:00am

3:00pm

6:15pm

8:00pm

9:30pm

Quick catch-up with associates and the supervising partner on my latest progress; continue with work after progress update

Finish discussing strategy and next steps; work on any instructions received

Discuss with associates and the supervising partner on deliverables for that day

Wrap up tasks and circulate the latest deliverables to clients, partners and associates; head home and call it a day

Quick social break with other trainees and associates

Arrive at office, check email and catch up with associates on ongoing projects

Michael’s Story

2016• Entered my second year as a trainee solicitor at Deacons

2013• Did my summer internship with Deacons

2012• Returned to Hong Kong; joined the Juris Doctor

programme at the University of Hong Kong

2011• Got my first job in New York

2010• Ran my first half marathon in Philadelphia

2007• Enrolled in the University of

Pennsylvania for college

A Day in the Life as a Second Year Trainee


Michelle Li

I chose Deacons

After joining the vacation scheme at Deacons, I gained a much better insight into what it would be like working here and had a chance to get to know the people at this reputable firm. I was instantly impressed by the dynamic working environment and the collegial atmosphere at the firm. The commitment Deacons has towards its trainee programme and the effort the firm puts into providing the best training for its trainees make it an ideal place for me to begin my legal career. I am confident that Deacons is able to offer me the all-round legal training that I wanted.


I had instantly felt very welcomed by the people at the firm when I first stepped into the office. My colleagues are always more than willing to help whenever I needed it. The firm also ensures that we, as trainee solicitors, have the resources we need to kick-start our careers. We are also each paired with a mentor to give us guidance throughout the two years of traineeship. All of these had greatly helped me in adapting to the life of a trainee solicitor.




Always one step ahead

It is important to constantly keep yourself updated and to carry out independent learning. In this regard, the firm has built up an extensive internal shared knowledge database for all to access which I find extremely helpful especially as I am still relatively new to the job. It is definitely worthwhile spending some extra time in self-learning and to make the most out of the shared knowledge database.

Unparalleled learning experiences

I really appreciate the firm’s efforts and investment in giving lawyers access to the best training and developments around, and in equipping us with skills which we can take anywhere. Deacons Academy would be a great example of the firm’s initiative in providing training to its lawyers. In addition to the broad variety of in-house legal topic seminars we frequently have at the firm, Deacons Academy also provides us with training that focuses on aspects such as developing our people engagement skills and sharpening our commercial acumen, all of which are qualities that I am sure will help advance my career.

9:00am

Michelle’s Story

11:00am

2:00pm

4:00pm

7:30pm

9:30pm

Make adjustments to the day plan

Meet with partner / associate to discuss working progress and update status

Contact the Trade Marks Registry for client matters

Exercise

Wrap up and off work

Arrive at work, check emails and recent IP news and make plans for the day

2015• Joined Deacons as a trainee solicitor• Took up stand-up paddle boarding as a hobby

2016• Started ceramics class

2014• Graduation trip to Cambodia

2013• Did my summer internship with Deacons

2010• Graduated from high school

and entered law school

A Day in the Life as a Second Year Trainee


Theresa Luk

Associate, Intellectual Property Commercial & Litigation

The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Juris Doctor

The University of Toronto – Honours Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences

Joined Deacons as a Trainee Solicitor in 2012, Vacation Student in 2010

I chose Deacons

There are many perks of joining Hong Kong’s oldest, and one of the largest, full-service law firm. The broad exposure and prominent clientele no doubt keeps me constantly challenged and engaged. The firm’s strong professional support also allows me to focus on rendering high-quality work. The opportunity to work directly along with a partner to handle files and run lawsuits is definitely one of the factors attracting me to this job at Deacons.

8:45am

A Day in the Life as an Associate

9:00am

10:30am

3:00pm

5:00pm

8:30pm

Offer advice at a client’s on-site IP dispute resolution platform

Participate in an Intellectual Property (IP) Practice Group breakfast meeting

Deliver IP protection briefing at client’s office

Off to the gym

Discuss with Partner on case status and strategies

Arrive at the office and check emails for any urgent matters

Tips for joining Deacons with the right mindset

Talk to different people. It is never too early to try to understand the profession and see what you are up against. Lost? Try starting

at law fairs and career talks. Keep an open mind and choose firms with different legal practices – hence I chose a full-service law firm so that I could explore and eventually practice the field

that sparks my interest. It is difficult to know which field suits you unless and until you have actually tried it.

Theresa’s Story

2014• Admitted as a solicitor in HKSAR

2013• Became a member of Celtic

Connections Hong Kong Choir

2012• Commenced training at Deacons

2011• Received Juris Doctor degree from

the Chinese University of Hong Kong


2009• Received Hon.B.Sc. degree

from University of Toronto

My role

I mainly advise brand owners on IP infringement claims and the protection of IP rights. My work also touches on data protection and privacy laws and the Trades Descriptions Ordinance, which I find very interesting and relevant to our daily lives, as I am certain most of us have received direct marketing calls against our wish or were once victims of unfair trade practices.

Outside work

I strive to develop and maintain hobbies in the quest to achieve work life balance. Most people around me know that I love singing and I sing in choirs every weekend. I am also slowly picking up the guitar. On the more active side, I enjoy exercising at the gym and doing yoga. I am now beginning to find refuge in cooking as well!


Chris Wong

Associate, Finance & Insolvency

The University of New South Wales – Bachelor of Commerce & Bachelor of Laws

Joined Deacons as a Trainee Solicitor in 2013, Vacation Student in 2010

I chose Deacons

Of the firms that I looked at when I was at university, Deacons was by far the most appealing firm. With its full-service nature offering a wide range of work, and its strong historical connection to Hong Kong, Deacons offered the aspiring lawyer a unique combination of scale and history, and of challenge and opportunity. Another reason is the sense of camaraderie you find in the firm. The support everyone offers to each other is evident from your first day as an intern. Such an atmosphere is fantastic to work in.

My role

Having qualified into the Finance and Insolvency Department of Deacons, I work on a wide range of banking and regulatory matters. I advise and assist in the preparation of finance documents for loan transactions, such as syndicated loans and acquisition financing, which involves everything from drafting documents to giving legal opinions. I also advise and assist in the licensing of financial institutions with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and other authorities. I have also worked on matters involving privacy law, particularly on the collection of customer data by banks, and issues and topics related to banking, such as payment and credit cards.

Building my career

Being in a firm like Deacons, with its full service nature and atmosphere, is very conducive to learning and self-improvement. Through working with your supervising associate or partner, you get a real sense of how the work is done practically. You can pick up a lot of soft skills from simply being involved, and of course you pick up a lot of legal knowledge from the work itself. On top of this, the firm offers further training, in the form of classes under Deacons Academy and legal topic lectures. As a trainee, it is important to bear in mind that you are here to not only work, but to learn as well. Carrying an open-minded attitude will amplify the knowledge you gain from your time and your work as a trainee.


Be enthusiastic and confident in everything you do, from the first steps of applying for an internship to your work as a

trainee and beyond. As a student looking for an internship or a training contract, be motivated to ask others for their thoughts and experiences. Always be confident in your application, your

achievements, and your ability. As an intern or a trainee, be ready and willing to ask questions or discuss with a supervisor.

Involve yourself with the work and the firm, and you will find that transition from student to trainee much smoother.

9:00am

A Day in the Life as an Associate

11:00am

12:00nn

2:30pm

4:00pm

8:00pm

Meet with the parties and attend the signing and execution of the finance documents

Discuss with partner and colleagues the progress of several loan transactions

Make telephone calls and send emails to foreign counsels and clients, reviewing the latest drafts of finance documents and discussing amendments

Make a to-do list for the next day; off to dinner with friends

Attend cross-departmental meeting to discuss project updates and work to date

Get in the office and get the day started, work on the items on the to-do list

Chris’ Story

2015• Started as an associate in the Finance

and Insolvency Department of Deacons

2013• Co-led the Deacons Dragons dragon boat team

• Started training with Deacons

2010• Joined Deacons as a vacation student;

finished LLB / BCom at UNSW

2009• Attended the Australian Law

Students Association conference in Brisbane as a competitor for UNSW

2008• Went to Beijing for a course on the

PRC Legal System organised by UNSW


Patsy Lau

I chose Deacons

I have always enjoyed the challenges and the fast pace presented by intellectual property law. When I graduated from law school in California, I wanted to gain work experience practicing IP in Asia and Deacons had a well-established practice, so it was a natural choice for me to join the team here. Over the years, it ’s been a privilege to work with some very talented and passionate IP lawyers at Deacons. Here I can fully appreciate the culture of striving for excellence.

My role

I advise clients ranging from small start-ups to large multi-national conglomerates on brand protection and exploitation. I work with lawyers and executives in my team, and we also often work cross-functionally with our IP Commercial & Litigation and China IP colleagues as well as foreign IP professionals. This is because many of our clients’ businesses are multi-jurisdictional and multi-faceted involving issues of branding, e-commerce, advertising, licensing, regulatory, etc. I also keep myself appraised of the latest developments and trends of our clients’ industries which include pharmaceutical, entertainment, hospitality, consumer goods, luxury goods, and financial.

My career journey

I was trained in the United States, and had to re-qualify in Hong Kong. Although the pass rate of the re-qualification exam was in the single digits, it was a necessary step for me to establish myself as a fully-fledged IP lawyer in Hong Kong. With perseverance and the support from my supervising partner at the time I managed to re-qualify locally.

I also enjoy teaching. I had the opportunity to teach IP law at HKU SPACE. This was an enriching experience for me since I often found that no matter how knowledgeable I was on any particular topic, almost inevitably there was something new for me to learn.

Partner, Hong Kong and International Trade Marks

University of San Francisco – Juris Doctorate

University of San Francisco – Bachelor of Arts

Joined Deacons as a Paralegal in 1997, Associate in 1999


I believe two key ingredients to a fulfilling career in law are: being passionate about what you do and having a love for learning. I chose law as a career because I enjoy problem solving, whether it is a game of Sudoku, a jigsaw puzzle or helping a client to find legal solutions as a part of my daily work, I like the process of dissecting a problem and objectively examining my basic assumptions and sometimes having to debunk them. It is very satisfying to be able to provide commercially

sound solutions to our clients’ problems.

Patsy’ Story

2016• Appointed onto International Trademark

Association’s APAC Global Advisory Council

2009• Served as the President of The Hong Kong

Institute of Trade Mark Practitioners

2007• Promoted to partnership

2006• Lectured at HKU SPACE

2001• Admitted as a Hong Kong solicitor

1997• Joined Deacons upon passing

the California Bar Exam

A Day in the Life as a Partner

While working full-time, I wanted to learn more about the practicality of litigations under the Commonwealth system. So I studied IP litigation at Nottingham Law School. I would travel to Nottingham every quarter for an intensive week of lectures and practicals. The programme lasted for two years. It was extremely valuable in broadening my legal skills, allowing me to advise on IP issues holistically and not to artificially compartmentalise legal problems into different disciplines of IP law.

I now speak on trade mark law and related subjects at international IP conferences. Learning is still fun after working in IP for many years.

Outside work

I have a young grade schooler at home, and in my eyes he is the most demanding client! Being a working mother can be both very rewarding and challenging at the same time. Now that my son is older, I am gradually resuming my arts and crafts hobbies. My passion for craft work is put to good use when I help out with his Sunday school class.

8:00pm

Leave for yoga

9:00am 10:30pm

10:30am

3:30pm

4:30pm

5:30pm 7:00pm

6:00pm

Advise clients on strategy for a new cross-branding project

Draft client email on impact of Brexit on UK and EU trade marks

Review advices and pleadings prepared by associates

Participate in council meeting for Trade Mark Practitioners Institute to discuss IP issues and proposed changes in the law

Coach trainee on an urgent legal research

Finalise a multi-jurisdictional Settlement Agreement and email to foreign lawyers for local compliance advice

Arrive at the office and respond to urgent emails

Attend conference call with International Trade Mark Association’s committee


Alfred Tam

Partner, Insurance Litigation

Head of Graduate Recruitment Committee


Joined Deacons as a Trainee Solicitor in 1994

I chose Deacons

It must be the firm's harmonious culture and value towards its people. At Deacons, everyone gets on really well.

Our partners are very open-minded and liberal. We welcome new ideas and suggestions from our associates and trainees. Our people feel respected and valued. Furthermore, what distinguishes us from others is that all our lawyers have the passion for excellence in their areas of practice. Some people think that being a lawyer is just a job, but we do not share that view.

We are not satisfied with completing the task which we are instructed to do. We always have the ardour to do more and in such a way we never stop formulating novel ideas and planning ahead in the best interest of our clients. This is something more about us and makes us special.

My role

Since my admission more than a decade ago, I have always relished the opportunity to work in Deacons' premier Insurance Litigation Practice Group acting for major insurers and re-insurers in Hong Kong. My colleagues are all exceptionally talented people. Whilst we normally handle cases on an individual basis, we work together as a team on huge claims. One of my most satisfying experiences in my career was the out-of-court settlement of all the SARS claims on behalf of a major healthcare institution in Hong Kong.

Apart from the day-to-day lawyer's work, I am the Head of the Graduate Recruitment Committee. I also serve in the Professional Standards and Development Committee looking after their needs. Through these commitments, I share my experiences and values with the younger generation and fresh graduates. As I was a Deacons' trainee myself, I am apt to tell them about the career prospects here and give them guidance on their career path. My career journey

My road to partnership in Deacons is gratefully a smooth one. I started as a trainee in 1994, worked as an associate in 1996 and became a partner in 2002. When I was a trainee, I realised immediately that Deacons was the right place for me to develop my long-term career. I believe that one's hard work will always be rewarded. Deacons has proved me right.


Deacons' lawyers are highly enthusiastic, committed and confident of meeting challenges but at the same time

leading a well-balanced life. If you share our mission and vision, you are welcome to join us.

A Day in the Life as a Partner

Outside work

Working as a lawyer is by no means easy. Yet, it is vitally important to strike a work and life balance. I am a very keen golf player. I enjoy going to the golf course with my colleagues and clients on weekends. It is still my dream to get the coveted hole-in-one prize! Very recently, I have rekindled my interest in cycling. What a joy to breathe the fresh air on my bike!

Alfred’s Story

7:30am

8:30am

9:30am

10:30am

11:30am

7:00pm

4:30pm

3:00pm

Practice group partners’ breakfast meeting

Go through incoming mails and documents; assign work to associates and trainees

Review files and prepare for client meetings

Meet with graduate recruitment committee to discuss recruitment plan

Golf practice at driving range

Meet with clients to advise on strategy to deal with a disaster claim; social lunch with clients

Approve and discuss work done by associates and sign letters

Deliberate administrative affairs within practice group

2014• Celebrated 20th Anniversary in Deacons

2010• Became Head of Graduate Recruitment Committee

2009• Accredited as a mediator

2002• Promoted to partner

1996• Admitted as a solicitor

1994• Joined Deacons as a trainee solicitor

48

Graduate Recruitment Team

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our people who kindly participated and featured in our graduate recruitment campaign.

Thanks to all our colleagues for taking part in the photo shoot for this brochure.

And, thanks to you, our readers.

5th Floor, Alexandra House18 Chater Road

Central, Hong KongTel: +852 2825 9211Fax: +852 2810 0431

Email: [email protected]/graduaterecruitment

Getting to Know Deacons

There are plenty of ways to ensure we are right for each other.

Recruitment TalksWe hold on-campus presentations to provide

undergraduates with information of our Vacation Student Programme and Trainee Programme.

You will get a feel of the kind of firm we are, the qualities we look for and the content of the

programme we have designed for you.

Career FairsWe attend law fairs in Hong Kong and overseas

every year. Another good way to know more about Deacons and get your questions answered.

Brochure and WebsiteRead our brochure. Check out our website. You will get useful and up-to-date information, as well as event dates and valuable tips, before making your online application and attending an interview.

Open DaysWe run open days two times a year. The event will give you a chance to gain greater insights to the life at Deacons. You will take a look around the office and attend informative talks given by the Graduate Recruitment Partners and current Trainees. A good chance to meet people face-to-face, pick up hints and tips on vacation student and trainee interviews, and chat informally during the evening.

discern the difference. take the lead. - graduate...

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