Big4 for lawyers is broadly divided into two categories. (1) Tax (2) Compliance and contracts.
1. Tax works like most other law firms. Have good internships and working knowledge of direct or indirect tax. Big4s don't do as much litigation, however they have a command over the advisory and tax compliance space. Most Tax teams are hiring every few months. Referral policies work great and are an easy entry into it.
2. Contracts and compliance - this vastly varies from team to team, but expect a lot of LPO styled work or at max, some due diligence which will mirror a CS more than a law firm lawyer. Do not expect any advisory work here and don't even think of litigation.
That being said, people who are bothered by the high pressure culture in law firms will love life at Big4. Work life balance is much better, policies are very employee centric. Career progression is straightforward and panned out really transparently. Money is similar to Tier 2 firms (30% to 50% less than Tier 1) and you're taxed like an employee.
What are there basic requirements as a fresher?
1. Tax works like most other law firms. Have good internships and working knowledge of direct or indirect tax. Big4s don't do as much litigation, however they have a command over the advisory and tax compliance space. Most Tax teams are hiring every few months. Referral policies work great and are an easy entry into it.
2. Contracts and compliance - this vastly varies from team to team, but expect a lot of LPO styled work or at max, some due diligence which will mirror a CS more than a law firm lawyer. Do not expect any advisory work here and don't even think of litigation.
That being said, people who are bothered by the high pressure culture in law firms will love life at Big4. Work life balance is much better, policies are very employee centric. Career progression is straightforward and panned out really transparently. Money is similar to Tier 2 firms (30% to 50% less than Tier 1) and you're taxed like an employee.