Deal Masterclass by DLA Piper
Discover the deal behind the headlines
Ever wondered what it takes to turn a business opportunity into a completed deal? Join Deal Masterclass by DLA Piper, an exclusive autumn programme designed for ambitious law students who want to go beyond legal theory and experience the world of transactional law in practice.
Across five interactive sessions, you will explore how lawyers guide clients through complex deals, structure transactions, negotiate key documents, secure financing and navigate the regulatory challenges that can determine whether a deal gets done. Guided by experienced DLA Piper lawyers, you will gain practical insight into the work of Corporate, M&A, Banking & Finance and Competition & Regulatory specialists and discover what it takes to succeed in a leading international law firm.
Give your legal career the best possible start and take your first step towards becoming a trusted advisor in the world of business and transactions.
What you will do
- Gain hands-on insight into the lifecycle of a transaction, from initial structuring to successful closing.
- Learn about key areas of transactional practice, including Corporate, M&A, Banking & Finance and Competition & Regulatory law.
- Work through practical examples, real-life deal scenarios and document-based exercises led by DLA Piper lawyers.
- Develop your commercial awareness and understanding of how businesses make strategic decisions.
- Meet lawyers from across DLA Piper’s transactional practices and learn about their day-to-day work.
- Build valuable connections with like-minded students and members of our Prague team.
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for motivated students who are excited by the world of business, transactions and international law.
You do not need previous transactional experience. We are particularly interested in students who demonstrate:
Interest in commercial law and business
You are curious about how companies grow, invest, finance transactions and navigate complex business challenges.
Strong analytical thinking
You enjoy solving complex problems, assessing different perspectives and working through practical legal issues.
Motivation to learn
You are eager to develop your legal and commercial knowledge beyond your university studies.
Collaborative mindset
You communicate effectively, contribute positively to team discussions and enjoy learning from others.
Entrepreneurial approach
You are proactive, curious and willing to challenge conventional thinking.
Commitment and professionalism
You take ownership of your work, meet commitments and strive for excellence in everything you do.
Eligibility
This programme is intended for:
- 3rd to 5th year students of Czech law faculties (Prague, Brno, Olomouc, Plzeň).
- Students with a demonstrated interest in Corporate, M&A, Banking & Finance or transactional law more broadly.
- Candidates who are motivated to gain practical insight into the legal profession.
Places are limited to approximately 15-20 participants to ensure a highly interactive learning experience.
Key dates
Programme duration: Autumn 2026
Format: Five interactive sessions (90 minutes each), held every two weeks.
Location: DLA Piper Prague office, Panská 2, Prague 1.
Please note that all sessions are held in person and attendance is not available online.
| Session | Date |
| Before the Deal: Building the Corporate Framework | 6 October 2026 |
| Anatomy of a Deal I: Structuring the Transaction | 20 October 2026 |
| Anatomy of a Deal II: Getting the Deal Done | 3 November 2026 |
| Money Behind the Deal | 24 November 2026 |
| Permission to Close | 2 December 2026 |
Application form
Complete our online application form via ELSA Czech Republic, link: Přihlašovací formulář.
Please note that places are limited and participants will be selected based on their application and motivation to take part in the programme.
Graduation & Certificate
Participants who successfully complete all five sessions will receive a DLA Piper Deal Masterclass Certificate of Completion, and an opportunity to attend an informal networking event to stay connected with our lawyers and future opportunities at the firm.
To graduate from the programme, participants are expected to attend all five sessions. However, we understand that sometimes things simply come up and you will not be able to attend all five workshops. In that case, we will offer you the opportunity to make up for the missed workshop with our unique online course focusing on M&A transactions for AI innovations.
Internship Opportunity
The Deal Masterclass does not have to end with graduation.
Selected participants who demonstrate outstanding engagement and a strong interest in transactional law throughout the programme may be invited to apply for an internship with DLA Piper’s Prague M&A team.
The internship will offer selected participants an opportunity to build on their Deal Masterclass experience, work alongside our lawyers on real matters and gain first-hand insight into day-to-day transactional practice.
Stand out during the programme – your Deal Masterclass journey could be just the beginnin.