Herbert Smith Freehills Assessment Tests

Herbert Smith Freehills is a global law firm that work on some of the world’s biggest cases and deals.

  • Three hiring stages
  • 10 practice tests in the Herbert Smith Freehills pack
  • 100 questions, all solved
Who Herbert Smith Freehills is
Employees
5,000+
Head office
London, UK

What are the Herbert Smith tests?

Herbert Smith tests are used during the hiring process to assess a candidate’s aptitude in areas like critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional reasoning within legal contexts reflecting the demands of work at a top-tier law firm.

Herbert Smith Freehills application process

From application to final assessment. The process varies slightly by programme and office.

  1. 1

    Online Application

  2. 2

    Online Tests

    Practise this stage
  3. 3

    Assessment Centre

Try a Herbert Smith Freehills-style question

A question in the style Herbert Smith Freehills sets. Pick an answer and the keyed option is shown.

Sample

After reviewing a legal case, it's apparent that the underlying principle governing the dispute is 'nemo dat quod non habet.' What does this imply about the case?

Practise the real thing

One question tells you the style. A pack gives you the hour: blended, marked, with the working shown.

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10
practice tests
100
questions, all solved

Careers at Herbert Smith Freehills

Herbert Smith Freehills is a global law firm that specializes in a wide range of legal services such as mergers and acquisitions, dispute resolution, and finance.

The firm was founded in 2012 as a result of a merger between UK-based Herbert Smith and Australia-based Freehills. With over 5,000 employees, the firm operates 27 offices across Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and the United States. The firm’s headquarters are located in London, UK.

Over the years, Herbert Smith Freehills has received several awards and recognition for their exceptional work in the legal industry. In 2021, the firm was named “Global Law Firm of the Year” by The Lawyer Awards, and “International Firm of the Year” by Legal Business Awards. Herbert Smith Freehills has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, winning the “Most Inclusive Firm for LGBT+ Lawyers” award at the 2020 Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards.

Working at Herbert Smith Freehills provides employees with numerous benefits such as a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work environment. The firm also offers various services to employees such as professional development programs, mental health support, and access to a range of wellness programs.

With a diverse range of job roles available, including positions in legal practice, business services, and technology, Herbert Smith Freehills provides employees with a dynamic and challenging work environment. Whether you are a seasoned legal professional or just starting your career, Herbert Smith Freehills offers exciting opportunities for career growth and development.

Herbert Smith Freehills Online Application

To begin applying at Herbert Smith, candidates are required to complete an online application form, which will typically include questions about the candidate’s educational and professional background, as well as their motivations for applying to Herbert Smith Freehills.

You’ll also be asked to answer three written questions (300 words max):

  • Introduce us to a topic you know about and explain why it interests you
  • Explain why you’re interested in pursuing a career at Herbert Smith Freehills
  • What skills, qualities, and attributes would you bring to the role?

Candidates may also be required to submit a resume, cover letter, and academic transcripts as part of the application process.

When applying for a role candidates are encouraged to take their time and ensure that they provide accurate and detailed information throughout the application process, as this will increase their chances of success.

If the candidate’s application is successful, they may be invited to complete further assessments such as online tests, video interviews, and assessment centers.

Herbert Smith Aptitude Tests

As part of its recruitment process, Herbert Smith Freehills uses a range of aptitude tests to assess the skills, competencies, and potential of candidates. The firm has partnered with the publisher SOVA to create a suite of tests that are tailored to the specific requirements of the legal industry. These tests are designed to evaluate a candidate’s cognitive abilities, decision-making skills, and personality traits, among other factors.

The aptitude tests used by Herbert Smith Freehills are an important part of the firm’s recruitment process, providing valuable insights into the skills and potential of candidates. By using a standardized and objective assessment process, the firm is able to identify the most talented and motivated candidates for its various job roles. Candidates who perform well on these tests demonstrate their ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment and are more likely to succeed in their careers at the firm.

The test takes approximately 35 minutes to complete. The completion time is recorded and will be considered during scoring.

Herbert Smith Situational Judgement Test (SJT)

The Herbert Smith Freehills Situational Judgement Test (SJT) is an online assessment designed to evaluate a candidate’s decision-making skills in real-world scenarios. The test typically presents the candidate with a series of scenarios that they may encounter while working at the firm and asks them to choose the most appropriate course of action.

The scenarios may be related to client interactions, team management, ethical considerations, and other aspects of the legal industry.

To prepare for the Herbert Smith Freehills SJT, candidates are encouraged to research the firm and its values and familiarize themselves with the type of scenarios that may be presented in the test.

Candidates should also practice their decision-making skills and learn to prioritize competing demands in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. By performing well on the SJT, candidates can demonstrate their ability to make effective decisions and work in a team, increasing their chances of success in the recruitment process.

Herbert Smith Personality Test

The Herbert Smith Freehills personality test is an online assessment designed to evaluate a candidate’s personality traits, preferences, and values, and assess their potential fit within the firm’s culture.

The test typically presents the candidate with a series of questions or statements, asking them to rate their level of agreement or disagreement. The questions may be related to the candidate’s communication style, problem-solving skills, work preferences, and other aspects of their personality.

To prepare for the Herbert Smith Freehills Personality Test, candidates are encouraged to be honest and authentic in their responses, as the test is designed to evaluate their true personality and values. Candidates should also familiarize themselves with the firm’s culture and values, and consider how their own personality and preferences align with the firm’s expectations. By demonstrating a strong alignment with the firm’s culture and values, candidates can increase their chances of success in the recruitment process.

Herbert Smith Verbal Reasoning Tests

In Herbert Smith’s verbal reasoning test, you will be presented with a series of paragraphs which you will be required to read and then answer questions. You must decide if the statements are true, false, or cannot tell.

The passages may be related to a wide range of topics, including legal issues, current events, and business strategy.

To prepare for the Herbert Smith Freehills Verbal Reasoning Test, candidates are encouraged to practice their reading comprehension skills, paying close attention to details such as the author’s argument, tone, and structure. Candidates should also practice their critical thinking skills, learning to identify assumptions, evaluate arguments, and draw logical conclusions from written information. By demonstrating strong verbal reasoning skills, candidates can show their ability to analyze complex information, make effective decisions, and communicate clearly and concisely, increasing their chances of success in the recruitment process.

Herbert Smith Freehills Assessment day

The Herbert Smith Freehills assessment day is typically the final stage of the recruitment process and an opportunity to showcase yourself to the firm as a future lawyer.

The assessment day is designed to evaluate the candidate’s skills, competencies, and potential fit within the firm, and typically involves a series of tasks and activities.

The assessment day may include a variety of tasks such as:

  • Group exercises
  • Case studies
  • Interviews
  • Presentations

These tasks are designed to evaluate the candidate’s ability to work in a team, their problem-solving skills, their communication skills, and their knowledge of the legal industry. Candidates may also be given the opportunity to meet with current employees of the firm, providing them with insights into the firm’s culture and working environment.

It is important for candidates to prepare thoroughly for the assessment day, research the firm and its values, and practice their interview and presentation skills. Candidates should also ensure that they arrive on time and dress appropriately for the occasion. By demonstrating their skills and potential, candidates can increase their chances of success and secure a position with Herbert Smith Freehills.

Herbert Smith Case Study Interview

The interview is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to analyze complex legal scenarios and provide effective solutions.

Candidates may be presented with a hypothetical legal problem and asked to identify the key issues, assess the potential risks, and develop a practical and effective solution.

You will then need to produce a presentation to give in front of the assessors. They will ask questions both in relation to the presentation and also to the wider case study so do ensure you read everything carefully. It is also advisable to read widely about the company and its values.

To prepare for the Herbert Smith Freehills Case Study Interview, candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the legal industry and current events, as well as the firm’s values and culture.

Candidates should also practice their analytical and problem-solving skills, learning to identify key issues, assess potential risks, and develop practical and effective solutions. By demonstrating strong legal knowledge and problem-solving skills, candidates can increase their chances of success in the recruitment process.

Herbert Smith Scenario-Based Interview

The Herbert Smith Freehills Scenario-Based Interview is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Candidates may be presented with a series of hypothetical scenarios that they may encounter while working at the firm and asked to provide a practical and effective response.

Herbert Smith Competency Interview

The Herbert Smith Freehills Competency Interview is designed to evaluate a candidate’s skills and experience in relation to specific competencies required for the job role.

Candidates may be asked a series of questions related to their experience, skills, and knowledge in areas such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.

You should be prepared to discuss your motivations and show you have the key skills required.

Herbert Smith Group Exercise

The Herbert Smith Freehills Group Exercise is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to work effectively in a team and solve problems collaboratively. Candidates may be presented with a hypothetical problem or scenario and asked to work with a team of other candidates to develop a practical and effective solution.

Candidates are encouraged to practice their teamwork and problem-solving skills, learn to communicate effectively, listen actively, and contribute to the group’s goals. By demonstrating their ability to work effectively in a team and contribute to a collaborative solution, candidates can increase their chances of success in this activity.

Frequently asked questions

What candidates ask us most often

Are the Herbert Smith tests hard?

Herbert Smith tests can be challenging because they are designed to measure an applicant’s proficiency under pressure and pinpoint those with the most suitable skillset for the fast-paced and complex world of legal services.

How do I prepare for Herbert Smith tests?

Preparing for Herbert Smith tests is best achieved through practice. Utilize Practice Aptitude Tests, which offers a plethora of relevant practice exams to ensure you enter your testing experience with confidence.

How long does the recruitment process take at Herbert Smith?

The duration of Herbert Smith’s recruitment process varies, but it typically involves several weeks from the initial application to the final decision, encompassing tests, interviews, and other assessment methods.

What are Herbert Smith's core values?

Herbert Smith’s core values revolve around excellence in client service, teamwork, integrity, and an ambition to lead in the global legal market by delivering innovative, high-quality solutions.

Reviews

Rated 4.0 out of 5 across 4 reviews. A selection:

Not very accurate

HSF use passage of texts for their questions but this used graphs, so I do not feel it was an accurate representation of what I may face.

Knowledge about mathematics after taking this test

Honestly, I didn't expect or think that such types of questions would involve intense mathematics.

It is important to understand ratios and percentages

I disliked the amount of ratio questions

Herbert Smith Freehills is a trademark of its respective owner. Practice Aptitude Tests is not affiliated with Herbert Smith Freehills and our practice tests are not endorsed by them. Visit Herbert Smith Freehills careers.

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