Summer Student Review

The insight started with a day and a half induction and then I sat for 2 weeks within a seat at the firm. Tasks varied on the demands of the team therefore my tasks were different each day. Typical tasks involved research on a niche area of law that a member of the team needed a note on. Drafting, reviewing and summarising documents and files, including court documents. Taking notes in meetings. Attending and taking notes in court. Drafting letters and emails to clients and general admin tasks that need completing.

I developed and learnt many skills. Examples of skills I have developed include teamwork, communication, independent learning, researching, attention to detail and many more. Other skills I have learned are those such as drafting, getting to grips with legal jargon, court procedure and more.

All the summer students partook in a day and a half induction where we could ask any questions about the business to employees, including the managing partner.

The general atmosphere in the office was incredibly welcoming and supportive. Everyone in my team were willing to help whenever I had a question or needed assistance. It was easy to raise concerns when I was struggling as well as ask and gain feedback. There are many diversity and inclusion networks that the firm have to offer, they also have a touch rugby team. There are many ways to get involved and bond with colleagues.

I thoroughly enjoyed the insight as it gave me valuable exposure to working at a litigation firm and working in an office environment. The work was very interesting, and I was given actual trainee tasks to complete which made the experience very valuable also.

Yes

Make sure you research the firm that you are applying for as the areas of law that are practiced are different according to what firm you are applying to. Clyde & Co in Scotland are a purely litigious firm and the majority of the work is personal injury defender work for insurance companies. However, this is not the case for all offices. Make sure you have an interest for this kind of work and can articulate that in an interview.