Firm Visit at Baker McKenzie: Behind the Deal – Legal Minds in Mergers & Acquisitions

On October 16, 2025, ALSA Thailand had the privilege of visiting Baker McKenzie at One Bangkok, where participants were given an invaluable opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to the professional environment and real-world practices of a leading international law firm. The visit was designed to bridge academic learning with practical insight, offering law students a deeper understanding of the strategic role lawyers play in complex mergers and acquisitions transactions.

Overview of the Experience

Firm Introductory Session

The visit began with an introductory session led by experienced practitioners from Baker McKenzie, who provided an overview of the firm’s global structure, its M&A practice, and the professional culture that underpins its success as one of the world’s leading law firms.

M&A Lecture and Insight Session

Participants had the honor of learning directly from M&A specialists, who shared their practical experiences and perspectives on deal-making in both domestic and cross-border transactions. The session highlighted the lawyer’s role beyond contract drafting, emphasizing strategic advisory functions, regulatory considerations, and real-life challenges faced in high-stakes transactions.

Interactive Discussion

Through an engaging and interactive discussion, speakers offered career guidance, shared personal professional journeys, and responded to students’ questions regarding working in international law firms, career paths in corporate law, and the skills essential for success in the M&A field.

Office Tour

Participants were also given the opportunity to tour Baker McKenzie’s office, gaining insight into the firm’s working environment and daily professional life. The tour allowed students to experience firsthand the atmosphere of an international legal practice and better envision themselves in a future legal career.

Highlights of Participant Experience

This firm visit offered participants a unique chance to deepen their understanding of M&A practice while building meaningful connections with professionals in the field. Engaging directly with experienced lawyers enabled students to gain practical insights that cannot be fully captured in a classroom setting. The combination of substantive legal discussion and the exclusive office tour provided a holistic perspective on both the technical and human aspects of working in a leading international law firm.

Last but not least, ALSA Thailand would like to express its sincere appreciation to Baker McKenzie, the distinguished speakers, and all participants for making this firm visit an enriching, inspiring, and memorable experience.