Summer placement Review

I had a great time. Everyone was very friendly and approachable which made me feel like a valued member of staff. I experienced how the pace changes from very busy to more quiet and steady period. I had the opportunity to attend a number of conference calls and also an actual client meeting. I was then given some tasks in relation to the meeting which would normally be a task for a trainee.

From day one I was involved in all sorts of tasks that trainee usually does, from attending a conference call, doing a research to drafting a letter to clients. There is no strict hierarchy in the firm. Partners, senior associates cooperate with junior lawyers and trainees on almost every transaction. Every opinion is highly valued, especially when it comes to checking and proof reading documents.

Whenever I had a question, everyone was willing to help from support staff and my buddy to more senior staff such as associates and partners. Everyone was very friendly and supportive so you never feel that you have been left on your own. There is always a couple of trainees or newly qualified solicitors who were where you are not that long ago.

I have learnt a lot. Most importantly, I learnt how to use the legal information in practice. I improved my legal writing, communication and research skills. I will definitely benefit from this experience during my university studies.

There were practice presentations almost every morning to give us a general insight into firm. Most of my time I spent in my department. The structure of placement was organised in advance and even though it is difficult to plan everything in busy legal environment, most of the events took place on time. In case something unexpected happened, the firm was flexible enough to reschedule the presentations on some other date.

Very friendly, approachable and sociable. We had a lot of fun.

There were practice presentations to provide us with an insight into various practice areas. In addition, we also had a couple of presentation which were held from a different office. That a great opportunity to compare how does the work vary in the same department across different offices.

I now have a clear idea what are the duties and tasks trainee has to deal with on day to day basis.

Absolutely, the firm is really living its values. During the placement, I could see what drives the firm forward. It gave me a better understanding of the firm and the ways how it distinguishes from its competitors.

There were many opportunities to meet with other employees not only during the usual office hours but also outside the office. One of the events was also a lunch with partners.

We had many social events organised by trainees from quiz night, dinner, drinks to watching a football match. There were also opportunities to socialise when we all went for a drink after work including partners and other staff.

The office is relatively small which makes it easier to get to know everyone and get involved in different social events. We went for a drink a couple of times straight from the office. Other activities are also advertised in the office.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in commercial law. It gives you a first hand experience and you can then decide whether it is something for you or not.