Trainee Solicitor Review

An incredible insight into the firm's operations, with client contact and challenging work through the placement itself.

We were made to feel extremely valued by the firm's representatives, and Georgie, Jen and the rest of the ETA team were so friendly all throughout the process!

The ETA team were on hand throughout the placement, with regular formal and informal check ins to see how we were getting along and if we had any questions/concerns.

The amount of knowledge, both of the general aspects of the firm and the specific legal knowledge relevant to the cases I was working on, was staggering - I felt that I came away from the internship having picked up invaluable knowledge and insight which will help me through my legal career.

The structure was unique - both in its make up and in its effectiveness in engaging us as participants with life at the firm. The Business of Law week was one of the most intense but rewarding weeks of my life, with a multitude of tasks designed to challenge and push us to be the best we could be.

The 'collaborative not competitive' atmosphere which CMS claimed they were aiming for when I was offered a place on the Academy, was more than met. I felt that I made genuine connections with fellow participants of the scheme, despite both the short duration and the intensity of the scrutiny.

The investment from the firm was undoubtedly impressive, with neuroscientists and Harvard Law professors featuring on panels through the week.

I was effectively a member of the team for the two weeks I was there, trusted to complete tasks independently and to attend court with the partner.

The exposure to the team over two weeks helped illuminate the culture of the department, and cross-departmental events almost daily helped expand that to the firm.

It effectively did - I am now as motivated as ever in pursuing a career with CMS as a result of my experience.

We were paid a decent wage as well as being reimbursed travelling expenses incurred.

We were provided with networking opportunities from a range of people at the firm, from CEO to paralegals.

There was a significant emphasis on enjoying the experience of the Academy, as well as working hard - the firm provided us with function-like three course meals throughout the first week of the Academy!

Absolutely, there were ample opportunities to chat to the team in CR to hear about pro bono/volunteering opportunities available at the firm.

I could not recommend this highly enough to a friend, as I felt that it was one of the most constructive experiences I've had the fortune of experiencing.