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I completed a rotation this summer through my Biglaw firm's London office, and I'm now considering whether to preference that office above New York. I got a pretty good sense of the work I would be doing there, but I was busy enough with firm events and weekend traveling that I didn't really get a sense for the lifestyle, and would be extremely interested to hear from people who work in London about their lives outside the office, whatever they may be (or the social aspect inside the office).

Some more detail please.

US firm or magic circle?

Is it purely Americans over there or a mix?

Would this be a permanent assignment or a rotation?

Did you split your summer between a US city and London? What did you perceive the differences to be?

I am a lawyer at a BigLaw firm in London (DC HQ'd).

London life is fantastic in the City (area of london where all the law firms, most banks etc. are). So many traditional pubs and swanky bars a short walk from the office - and they are full of professionals letting their hair down from 6pm onwards. Great feeling and culture.

dwyf wrote:Some more detail please.

US firm or magic circle?

Is it purely Americans over there or a mix?

Would this be a permanent assignment or a rotation?

Did you split your summer between a US city and London? What did you perceive the differences to be?

Magic Circle, permanent placement. I was also in New York, where I lived pre-law school.

Anonymous User wrote:I am a lawyer at a BigLaw firm in London (DC HQ'd).

London life is fantastic in the City (area of london where all the law firms, most banks etc. are). So many traditional pubs and swanky bars a short walk from the office - and they are full of professionals letting their hair down from 6pm onwards. Great feeling and culture.

Thanks! What other aspects of living in London do you think I wouldn't have got from a short rotation that I should be aware of before moving there?

It's an extremely expensive city. That's the main thing I would note when you're thinking about lifestyle choices. I have lived there all my life and love it - great restaurants, culture, base for travel all over Europe, etc - but do factor in cost (particularly of renting an apartment in a desirable location with a good commute), especially compared to many US cities.