The Legal Cheek View
Big Six firm William Fry has been a key player in Dublin’s legal scene since its formation in 1847. Back then, the firm’s eponymous founder lived above the office with his family in the Georgian squares of Dublin 2. Fast forward to today, and William Fry is one of the most recognisable firms in the country — with a sleek, modern HQ at 2 Grand Canal Square, right next to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.
The location couldn’t be better. It overlooks the Grand Canal and sits just a stone’s throw from Dublin’s tech-driven Silicon Docks. Despite being just off “Misery Hill”, the area is anything but miserable. There’s a real sense of space and calm by the water. You’ll spot gulls gliding across the canal, benches nestled among the garden plots and bold red sculptures, and the Irish National Opera right next door.
But William Fry is more than just a nice office in a great location. The firm takes on 30–35 trainees each year, offering a top-tier training contract in a genuinely supportive environment. You’ll join a firm with international reach — with offices in London, New York, and San Francisco — while staying rooted in Ireland’s legal heart. William Fry also opened a Cork office in 2019 and has strong links with Belfast-based firm Tughans. Until recently, the firm had been in discussions over a possible tie-up with the Irish arm of Eversheds Sutherland,, but the two sides were unable to reach a deal.
You’ll find the firm leading the way in M&A and private equity, but that’s just the beginning. Trainees get exposure to a wide range of practice areas — including media, real estate, tax, planning, white collar crime, IP, EU law, construction, and competition. Recently, William Fry advised Amgen on its proposed $28.3 billion acquisition of Horizon Therapeutics — a standout deal in Ireland’s fast-growing M&A market.
Those lucky trainees will be taken care of right from their time at Blackhall, earning €46-48k until qualification, when they will take home a market-leading €75,000, with salaries reviewed annually. Trainees are encouraged to get stuck in. From summer projects, including pro bono initiatives, and firm-wide mentoring schemes to the annual trainee qualification dinner, there’s plenty to do beyond legal work.
As a trainee, you’ll rotate through four departments, working directly with partners and gaining real hands-on experience from day one. Your first seat comes before heading to Blackhall for the Professional Practice Course (PPC). The firm’s slightly smaller size (compared to other ‘Silicon Docks’ heavyweights) means more personalised training and plenty of responsibility early on — all backed by the firm’s learning & development team.
Life at William Fry isn’t all work, though. The office includes a 24/7 gym, a multi-purpose fitness space in a converted warehouse opposite, a café with barista-made coffee, and an in-house restaurant. Whether you cycle, drive, or walk in, commuting is straightforward, with a basement car park and sheltered entrances to keep you dry on windy Dublin days.
Getting around is easy-peasy. Hop on a DublinBike and explore the flat, scenic routes along the Liffey or Grand Canal, and when it comes to food, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether you fancy tacos, eggs benedict, or a celebratory seafood dinner, the Docks have you covered. A big Wetherspoons nearby offers great value, sunlit seating, and quieter corners in the basement to unwind after a busy day. For fancier cocktails, try the Marker Hotel’s rooftop bar, with views over the city.
Innovation is part of the culture. In August 2024, William Fry launched its first “AI Guide”, covering everything from IP to contracts and cybersecurity. One partner has been particularly active in tracking developments under the new AI Act.
Secondments are a major perk. One recent trainee went on two client secondments (including a stint at IBM) to build their in-house legal experience. Others have taken secondments to the firm’s Cork or London offices, giving you the chance to broaden your network and skills.
Who are they looking for? Final and penultimate year students, postgrads, and graduates from any discipline — ideally with or expecting a 2:1. William Fry values motivation, teamwork, great communication skills, and an eye for detail. Most of all, they’re after people who are genuinely passionate about building a legal career at a firm that combines tradition with ambition.