Liam joined Freshfields in 2019 as a legal assistant and returned in 2022 as a trainee. He is an associate in the Global Transactions – Corporate department in Hong Kong. He studied law at Tsinghua University and BPP University, and finished his traineeship in 2024. 

Training at Freshfields is a comprehensive foundation for a career in corporate law.  

You’ll start learning how to serve high-profile clients from the minute you join as a Freshfields trainee. 

Moving across eight seats in London and Hong Kong, I gained experience in private equity, M&A, banking and finance, dispute resolution and intellectual property. This kind of exposure gives you a broad view and deep understanding that’s invaluable when you go into practice. 

London is mature with a stable stream of transactions, while Hong Kong is emerging, with the prospect of one-of-a-kind deals. Training in both places, you get a rounded education. 

Try to be fearless. Step out of your comfort zone and put your hand up. Freshfields will always offer support. People here appreciate trainees taking the initiative.  

Our cases and their outcomes have a real impact on the world.  

You’ll be involved in cases that are making the headlines. Being part of something significant is rewarding.  

Working in a global firm builds an international perspective. In the morning you could be instructing local Korean counsel and by the afternoon joining a team call to London. Zig-zagging between cultures teaches you how to work with people to create real progress.  

Before I joined Freshfields, I expected a harsh and intense culture – but we try to make each other’s life easier. 

Inside and outside of work, Freshfields is a caring and supportive environment for trainees, which really inspires loyalty. There’s also the chance to do pro bono work.  

Positivity is central to the culture at Freshfields. Everyone is determined, but also helpful. 

Stay open-minded and have confidence in your potential.