THE BREWERY
programme
Welcome to De Brauw, where we find inspiration in our shared commitment to collaboratively solve complex cases, fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement. Here, everyone's voice is heard, and open dialogue thrives, creating a vibrant atmosphere as we tackle pressing legal challenges. We believe excellence is born when talent comes together in the same vibe. That's when the magic happens, and the very best work gets done. At De Brauw, this is what defines a culture of collective excellence.
THE BREWERY
HOW TO APPLY
DISCOVER THE BREWERY: YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE
Since 2015, The Brewery has been our vibrant professional hub for international law graduates with up to 2 years of professional legal experience. At The Brewery, we welcome international talent from all over the globe. This unique blend makes The Brewery an ideal launchpad for your professional legal career in the Netherlands.
We are currently on the lookout for enthusiastic Associates to join our Arbitration, Competition, and Data Privacy departments. The Brewery programme is not just about legal training; it is a journey of self-discovery that prepares you for a successful career as a lawyer. You'll become part of a small, ambitious group, forming lasting professional connections and friendships, all backed by a fixed three and a half-year employment contract.
BREWERY HIGHLIGHTS
Here are some of the highlights of The Brewery programme, organized into four pillars:
Intensive training and direct involvement in cases from day one:
- Intensive training within your practice area.
- Direct involvement in matters as an Associate from day one.
Qualification as a Solicitor in England & Wales:
- Even if you're already qualified elsewhere, you'll qualify as a Solicitor in England & Wales.
- You'll prepare for the SQE1/SQE2 examinations alongside your work as an Associate.
Dutch language training:
- You will take Dutch language lessons to enhance your communication skills and facilitate your integration in the Netherlands. We understand that mastering Dutch is essential for social interactions, and while we encourage your language development, we do not expect you to write Dutch texts as part of your role.
The Brewery and the Brauwerij:
- Integrated training components with our Dutch-qualified Associates in the Brauwerij, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
At The Brewery, you'll dive into a dynamic environment designed to fuel your professional growth and personal development. Joining a small yet ambitious group, you'll quickly form friendships and valuable connections that will support you throughout your journey. Be prepared to tackle challenges head-on, as you navigate a steep learning curve that will enhance both your personal and professional skills. From day one, you'll assume responsibilities, all while being coached and supported by seasoned senior lawyers who are invested in your success. Beyond traditional work, you'll have the opportunity to engage in meaningful pro bono projects, enriching your experience and making a positive impact on the community. And with a fixed 3.5-year employment contract, you'll have the stability and support you need to thrive.
YOUR FUTURE AT DE BRAUW
- After 3.5 years, you have the opportunity to be promoted to Senior Associate at De Brauw.
ELIGIBILITY
In order to be eligible for The Brewery:
- You should have completed your legal education at bachelor's and/or master's level; and
- You should have no more than two years of full-time professional legal work experience, excluding internships or study-related activities.
What qualification will I get?
In The Brewery you will start with the process of qualifying as a solicitor in England & Wales. Also, if you are already qualified as a lawyer in another country. Generally, we will also help you to maintain any existing qualifications. De Brauw does not expect you to become a qualified lawyer in the Netherlands.
What about my "home" jurisdiction?
You can possibly still practice it. You may be asked to join the team if we handle a matter relevant to your home jurisdiction. Your experience or knowledge of your home jurisdiction is only one of the factors that may be considered when building a team to work on a specific matter.
I would like to apply, but will you help me with finding a place, getting my work permit etc.?
Once you have been offered a place in The Brewery, our HR colleagues will reach out to you to discuss the next steps. You may need a visa and/or a work permit, depending on your individual circumstances (that is, your nationality and/or current place of residence). Together we will take care of this process.
We will actively share helpful contacts and websites, but do not actively assist in finding a place to live. It can be difficult to find accommodation in the center of Amsterdam, and many colleagues choose to expand their search area to towns and cities relatively close to Amsterdam, such as Amstelveen, Leiden, The Hague and Utrecht.
What is De Brauw's official language and am I expected to learn Dutch?
All firm-wide communications and events are in English. Courses are given in English as well. The only exceptions are the courses where content is closely related to Dutch law and only relevant to Dutch lawyers.
You are not expected to learn Dutch. Dutch language classes up to B1 level are always available if you want to learn to speak, read and write basic Dutch.
LET’S GET IN TOUCH
Anything else we can help you with? Please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, email or Instagram.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Lisette de Vreeze
Lead Recruitement Adviser
Lisanne van Baaren
Senior Recruitment Adviser (Brauwerij)