Life of Newly Qualified UK Lawyer

Category: Uncategorized

  • So I Got a Puppy While Working Full Time as a Solicitor…

    So I Got a Puppy While Working Full Time as a Solicitor…

    Our dog, Porthos, who we had since we got married died at the start of this year. My wife and I decided when the time was right we would get another dog, as our lives seemed that little bit emptier without a fur baby. On paper, it sounded like a sensible life decision. Work full time as a solicitor, juggle deadlines, remember to eat lunch occasionally… and throw a puppy into the mix. I mean, I work from home two days a week—how hard could it be? (Answer: harder than finding a free parking space outside court.)

    The Highs

    • Zoom clients: Forget virtual backgrounds. Nothing impresses clients like a Dalmatian pup crashing your Zoom/Teams call, chewing your bundle of deeds, and sealing them with dirty paw prints and looking smug about it.
    • Mandatory breaks: Puppies don’t care about exchange deadlines, deadlines, meeting times or anything else work related —they want walkies. Suddenly, I’m the weird solicitor power-walking round the block in my suit trousers and trainers, clutching a lead like it’s an exhibit.
    • Comic timing: Drafting a will is dull until you hear the unmistakable rip of toilet paper echoing through the house. Nothing quite focuses the mind like sprinting mid-clause.
    • Unlimited affection: Some days, the only person happy to see me is the dog. And let’s be honest—she gives better feedback than most clients.

    The Lows

    • Carpet casualties: Try explaining to your firm’s director why your voice cracked on a client call. No, it wasn’t emotion. It was stepping in something warm and unpleasant mid-sentence.
    • The guilt trip: Two days a week I’m the Best Human Ever. The other three, I get the kind of betrayed stare that could crumble even the strongest cross-examination.
    • Energy mismatch: After a ten-hour day, I want Netflix and silence. My puppy wants to re-enact the Battle of Hastings in the living room. Guess who wins?
    • Background noise: Nothing says “professional” like speaking to serious clients (with no sense of humour) while a squeaky toy shrieks in the background like a deranged rubber chicken.

    The Verdict

    Getting a puppy while working full time is like trying to complete on Friday at 4:59pm: technically possible, but only with luck, prayer, and a sense of humour.

    Would I recommend it? Absolutely. You’ll lose sleep, shoes, and maybe a section of carpet. But you’ll gain a loyal, chaotic sidekick who thinks you’re a superhero—even when you’re just crying into your fourth coffee because the Land Registry portal shows you have waiting Land Registry query letters about an ongoing application (for the 10th time).

    At the end of the day, clients come and go. Case files close. Deadlines pass. But when a puppy greets you at the door like you’ve just won the best ever settlement for a client, it makes the madness worth it.

    ⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |

  • The Night Before: Returning to Word After Annual Leave

    The Night Before: Returning to Word After Annual Leave

    The Night Before: Returning to Work After Annual Leave as a Solicitor

    There’s a special kind of Sunday Scaries that hits different when you’ve just had a week (or two, if you’re lucky) off. I find it hits hardest when you have been able to take the full two weeks off in one go. One minute you’re sipping cocktails, reading novels you’ll never admit to your colleagues, and pretending you’ve forgotten what an email is. The next… it’s 9pm, your suitcase is still on the floor, and your brain is running through all the horrors that Monday could bring.

    Sound familiar? Let’s break this down and let me furnish you with a few tricks to make the transition back to the office a little less soul-crushing, whether you’re in the legal field or not – I think it is fair to say this will strike true for most!

    ⸻

    The Emotional Rollercoaster

    1. The “Inbox Dread” Stage

    You don’t even need to open Outlook to know. The unread count will be there, waiting. Like a digital monster crouched behind your login screen. And even though you had a perfectly lovely time away, you can’t help but wonder if half the profession has collapsed without you. Spoiler: it hasn’t. (Probably.)

    1. The Sudden Productivity Panic

    You’ve just remembered: that matter you swore you’d “pick up after holiday” is now after holiday. Cue lying awake at midnight, mentally drafting attendance notes, while your partner reminds you that whispering “land registry” in your sleep is not normal.

    1. The Existential Reflection

    Why am I even doing this? Maybe I should just move to a Greek island and open a beach bar? I was so much happier not checking emails for a week. (This phase usually lasts until about 11:30am Monday, when you remember you quite like getting paid.)

    ⸻

    How to Survive the Night Before

    1.	Set a Gentle Landing

    Don’t roll into Monday with back-to-back deadlines. If you can, block out the first hour to just read through your emails and get your bearings. You’ll thank yourself later.

    2.	Unpack More Than the Suitcase

    Empty the mental suitcase too. Write down the three biggest tasks you know are waiting. Getting them out of your head makes them far less intimidating.

    3.	Inbox Triage

    Yes, there will be emails. No, you don’t have to reply to all 274 of them before lunch. Skim, delete, delegate, and prioritise. Remember: not everything that says “URGENT” is actually urgent.

    4.	Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive

    Bring a little of the holiday back with you. Coffee in your favourite mug, lunch outside if it’s not raining (…so, not often), or even setting a holiday photo as your background. It’s a small reminder you’re more than your billable hours.

    5.	Plan Something to Look Forward To

    Whether it’s dinner with a friend mid-week, a swim before work, or simply a nap worthy of a toddler — give yourself a mini “holiday” moment to soften the crash landing.

    ⸻

    Final Thoughts

    Returning from annual leave as a solicitor can feel like running into a tidal wave of tasks, deadlines, and client demands. But with a little preparation (and a sense of humour), you can keep the Sunday Scaries from taking over. Remember: the inbox will always be full, the diary will always be busy, but your sanity is worth protecting.

    Besides, it’s only a few weeks until your next annual leave request, right?

    ⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |

  • The Day Before Annual Leave: A Solicitor’s Survival Guide

    The Day Before Annual Leave: A Solicitor’s Survival Guide

    The Day Before Annual Leave: A Solicitor’s Survival Guide

    There are few feelings more glorious than that “last day before holiday” buzz. You can almost smell the sunscreen, hear the clink of ice in a glass, and feel the warm breeze — until reality smacks you in the face. Because you’re not just you… you’re you the solicitor, or in my case – a private client solicitor. And there are those few clients that still think you should be at their call any time including when you are on annual leave. This just adds got the stress of the 24 hours before annual leave which is less “relaxed packing” and more “triage unit in a war zone”.

    Let’s go through the stages I experience in the 24 hours up to the big event!

    Stage 1. The Inbox Clearance Mission

    The mythical dream is to “get everything done” before you go. The reality? It’s 5:45pm, you’ve been replying to emails since 7am, and your inbox somehow now has more unread messages than it did this morning. You’ve just sent an “I’ll deal with this when I get back” holding reply… and instantly get an “URGENT – NEED THIS TODAY” email marked high importance.

    And yes, it’s from the client who ghosted you for three weeks. Naturally.

    At the end of the day, there is only so much you can do. So, I do what I can – send that holding email and leave it there. If it is something that cannot absolutely wait, then I will ask a colleague to keep things “ticking” over in my absence but I find that most of the time, these matters can wait for a week or two, especially during the summer months, when most other colleagues and court officials are also on leave.

    ⸻

    Stage 2. The Pre-Holiday Panic Call

    Without fail, the day before you leave, someone will ring you at 4:59pm with:

    “I know you’re going away, but can you just quickly…?”

    No. No, I cannot just quickly. “Quickly” in legal time means anywhere between 45 minutes and a full working day. But instead, you’ll find yourself typing like a caffeinated court reporter, muttering under your breath about how “this will definitely be my last-minute task”. Spoiler: it won’t be.

    ⸻

    Stage 3. The Hand-Over Dance

    Every solicitor knows the awkward joy of the handover note. It’s like passing on the baton in a relay race… except the baton is on fire, the track is made of Lego, and you’ve “just remembered” a crucial deadline halfway through writing it.

    The trick? Make it detailed enough so your colleague knows what’s going on, but vague enough so if things go wrong, it’s technically a “grey area”.

    ⸻

    Stage 4. The Pre-Leave Guilt

    Somehow, you’ll start feeling guilty for going away, as if you’re personally betraying the legal profession or that colleague who you have passed some cases over too by daring to spend a week somewhere that isn’t your office or the land registry portal. You’ll catch yourself saying things like:

    “I’ll have my phone if you need me!”

    Don’t do this. We both know you’ll be sipping something fruity on a balcony while pretending to read The Times app.

    ⸻

    Stage 5. The Final Office Sweep

    You know you’re about to be gone for more than a weekend when you start doing “the sweep”:

    •	Delete any mysterious sticky notes that might incriminate you.
•	Check your desk drawer for snacks that may evolve into new lifeforms.
•	Turn off your monitor like you’re locking the front door of Fort Knox.

    And yes, double-check the out-of-office email. You can’t risk last year’s blunder where you accidentally left it saying:

    “I’m on leave until 2019.”

    ⸻

    Stage 6. The Moment of Liberation

    Finally… it’s time. Laptop shut. Lights off. One last “have a nice holiday!” from the team. You step outside, take a deep breath, and feel the sweet release. For the next week or two, your only deadlines involve SPF reapplication and booking dinner reservations.

    Until you get that one email that says:

    “Hope you’re having a great time — quick question…”

    ⸻

    Moral of the story: The day before annual leave as a solicitor is a high-stakes, high-speed marathon. But that first cocktail on arrival? Worth. Every. Second.

    ⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |

  • What’s It Really Like Being a Solicitor in Northern Ireland?

    What’s It Really Like Being a Solicitor in Northern Ireland?

    Being a solicitor in Northern Ireland isn’t just a job—it’s an experience shaped by unique cultural, professional, and economic dynamics. Whether you’re a trainee just starting out or years into the game, you might have already noticed that the legal landscape here has its fair share of quirks, perks, and challenges.

    But have you ever taken a step back and really thought about what sets it apart?

    The Good Bits (and There Are Plenty)

    A Tight-Knit Legal Community

    Northern Ireland’s legal scene is relatively small, and that can be a real advantage. You’re more than just a number here—colleagues, counsel, and even judges tend to become familiar over time. This kind of close-knit environment can make building relationships, trust, and a professional reputation feel more achievable.

    Have you ever benefited from the closeness of the profession here—or found it a bit too tight for comfort?

    Diverse Work Early On

    Unlike in some larger jurisdictions, junior solicitors in Northern Ireland often gain broad exposure across different practice areas. In a single week, you might touch on conveyancing, wills, litigation, and family matters. It’s a crash course in versatility. This off course will depend on what firm you are training with. Some firms may not venture much into the realms of litigation or criminal law for instance.

    What would you do if you were thrown into a case well outside your comfort zone—embrace the challenge or panic first, learn later?

    Work-Life Balance Potential

    Shorter commutes, lower living costs, and less of the “always-on” culture of bigger cities can make balancing work and life more manageable here—if you’re in the right firm.

    How do you feel about your current balance? Could you imagine trading some prestige for more peace of mind?

    And Then, the Challenges…

    A Competitive, Strained Market

    Let’s not sugar-coat it—legal aid cuts, fee pressure, and an oversupply of graduates make the market tough. Smaller firms in particular can feel the pinch.

    What would you do if your firm began cutting back or restructuring? Are you prepared—or just hoping for the best?

    Mental Load and Burnout

    Solicitors in Northern Ireland face the same long hours, high expectations, and emotionally draining cases as elsewhere—but often with fewer resources. While support is improving, talking about burnout still feels taboo in many circles.

    How do you deal with the emotional toll of the job? Is there enough space to talk honestly about wellbeing in your workplace?

    So… Is It Worth It?

    The answer will differ for everyone. Some days, the work is meaningful, the pace rewarding, and the people around you make it all worthwhile. Other days? Well, we all know how those go.

    If you could go back to day one of your legal career—would you still choose this path? Or has it made you rethink what you really want from your work and life?

    ⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |

  • Drowning in Admin? How TextExpander Can Be a Solicitor’s Secret Weapon

    Drowning in Admin? How TextExpander Can Be a Solicitor’s Secret Weapon

    As a solicitor, your days are a relentless whirlwind of client calls, drafting documents, possible court appearances, and, let’s be honest, a mountain of administrative tasks. While you’re dedicated to providing the best legal help to your clients, the sheer volume of repetitive typing can eat into your valuable time – time that could be spent on other matters that require that legal brain.

    This is where an unassuming yet incredibly powerful app called TextExpander steps in. Think of it as your personal typing assistant, ready to instantly transform short abbreviations into frequently used phrases, paragraphs, or even entire documents. For solicitors, it’s not just a convenience; it’s could be a game-changer for administrative efficiency.

    What is TextExpander and How Does It Work?

    At its core, TextExpander allows you to create “snippets” – blocks of text that you frequently type. You then assign a short “abbreviation” to each snippet. When you type that abbreviation anywhere on your computer (emails, Word documents, case management software, even your browser), TextExpander automatically expands it into the full text.

    For example:

    • Instead of typing “Yours faithfully, [Your Name], Solicitor at [Your Firm Name]” every time, you could type yfsig and have it instantly expand.
    • Need to insert a common legal disclaimer? Type discl and watch it appear.
    • Regularly use a specific clause in contracts? A few keystrokes for clc1 could save you minutes of typing and ensure consistency.

    How TextExpander could Empower Solicitors in Their Administrative Tasks:

    The benefits for legal professionals are immense:

    1. Turbocharge Document Drafting:
      • Boilerplate Clauses: Easily insert common clauses for contracts, Wills, or other legal documents.
      • Conveyance Contract Special Conditions – I use this often to insert my more frequent used special conditions into contracts.
    2. Streamline Client Communication:
      • Standard Email Responses: Draft and save snippets for common client queries, status updates, or requests for information.
      • Onboarding Information: Quickly send out welcome packets, engagement letters, or intake forms.
      • Fee Agreement Language: Standardise your fee agreement terms with easy-to-insert snippets.
    3. Enhance Accuracy and Consistency:
      • Eliminate Typos: When TextExpander types for you, it’s 100% accurate every time, reducing the risk of costly errors in critical documents.
      • Uniformity Across the Firm: Share snippet libraries with your team to ensure consistent language, branding, and legal terminology across all communications and documents. This is particularly valuable for larger firms.
    4. Save Precious Time (and Billable Hours!):
      • The time spent on repetitive typing adds up. TextExpander users often report saving hours per week, allowing solicitors to focus on higher-value, billable work, or simply reclaim their evenings.
      • Imagine the cumulative time saved by not typing out your firm’s full address, your contact details, or common court names dozens of times a day.
    5. Simplify Administrative Chores:
      • Meeting Notes: Quickly insert common phrases or questions during client meetings or court hearings.
      • File Naming Conventions: Standardize how you name and date files with automated snippets like ddateexpanding to the current date in your preferred format.
      • Billing Entries: If your time and billing software accepts text input, you can even use TextExpander for quick descriptions of common tasks.

    Beyond the Basics: Advanced TextExpander Features for Legal Practices

    TextExpander offers more than just simple text replacement:

    • Fill-in Fields: Create snippets with interactive fields that prompt you for specific information (e.g., client name, date of birth, case number) when you expand them, ensuring documents are customized effortlessly.
    • Date and Time Calculations: Automatically insert future or past dates, perfect for deadlines or scheduling reminders.
    • Optional Sections: Include sections in your snippets that can be toggled on or off as needed, providing flexibility for different scenarios.
    • Shared Snippets: For legal teams, TextExpander allows for easy sharing of snippets, ensuring everyone is using the same, approved language and templates.

    The Verdict: A Small Investment, a Massive Return

    In a profession where every minute counts, I have personally found this app a time saver and very useful. There are other apps out there which may be cheaper or free but I have used this one for so many years and love it.

    It may not be for everyone but it is worth giving it a shot to see just how much time you could save on not having to repeat and type the same things over and over.

    ⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |

  • 🎩 The Conveyancer’s Survival Guide: Dealing with the Dreaded Difficult Opponent 🎩

    🎩 The Conveyancer’s Survival Guide: Dealing with the Dreaded Difficult Opponent 🎩

    Ah, conveyancing — the noble dance of property transactions. A world that involved land registry, client hand-holding, and the eternal wait for the missing management pack or forgotten searches! (I am off course not entirely innocent in this, but for the purposes of writing this post, lets assume I am perfect!)

    But nothing — and I mean nothing — tests the patience of a conveyancing solicitor quite like dealing with that solicitor on the other side. You know the one. They treat email replies like fine wine (must mature for 5-7 working days), CC their entire firm in every correspondence (OK a bit of an exaggeration), and will die on the hill of a missing “the” in the contract.

    So grab your de-caff tea, straighten your tie (or hoodie, no judgment), and let’s dive into the delightfully awkward ballet of dealing with difficult counterparts in conveyancing.

    🏠 The Curious Case of the Unresponsive Solicitor

    Let’s start with the classic: The Phantom. They vanish for days, only to return with a one-line email asking for a document you sent last Tuesday—twice.

    Survival Tip:

    Forward the original email with attachments and a cheery note like:

    “Just in case the document got lost in the property dimension 😊”

    Bonus points if you reference Mercury being in retrograde.

    📞 The Over-Talker

    These folks call instead of emailing. A lot. They begin with the weather, detour through Brexit (in the good old days, more likely this hot weather at the moment in the UK), and eventually meander their way to asking if the searches are back.

    Survival Tip:

    Politely steer the conversation like a canal boat captain. Try:

    “Lovely to catch up! Let’s pop it in writing so we’ve got a clear trail for both clients. I’ll follow up now.”

    Then swiftly hang up and run for caffeine.

    ⚖️ The Drama Queen (or King)

    They threaten to collapse the deal over something very simple and fixable with the appropriate indemnity insurance policy. They use phrases like “wholly unacceptable” and “deeply concerning” about something which in the grand scheme of things should not even being discussed by solicitors.

    Survival Tip:

    Channel your inner yoga instructor. Breathe in calm, breathe out sarcasm. Reply factually, not emotionally.

    And if it gets too much, remember: the delete button is only symbolic for your feelings. Not legally binding.

    💌 The Passive-Aggressive Emailer

    You’ll spot them by their signature move:

    “As previously stated…”

    Or worse, the triple full stop…

    Survival Tip:

    Match their tone? No. Rise above it, but with flair.

    Try:

    “Thanks for your email. Just to confirm, we’re on the same page here…” or gently remind them we are all working towards the same goal – sale/purchase of a house that everyone wants to complete.

    Sprinkle in a smiley face if you’re feeling spicy. 😊

    😎 Top Tips for Navigating the Conveyancing Jungle

    1. Keep Records Like a Victorian Archivist – Every email, every call. You never know when you’ll need to play the “well actually…” card.
    2. Use Templates – The best armour is a good standard reply. Saves time and emotional energy. I also use an app called TextExpander but there are alternatives – saves a huge amount of time for phrases, emails or text you use often.
    3. Celebrate Small Wins – Completion statement balanced? Reward yourself with a biscuit.
    4. Practice Legal Mindfulness – Repeat after me: “It’s just a house. It’s just a house. It’s just a house…”
    5. Vent (Responsibly) – Group chat rants are essential. Just don’t accidentally reply all. Talk to the legal secretaries, have a fellow colleague whom you can trust and vent too.

    🏁 Final Thoughts

    Working with a difficult solicitor is part of the great UK conveyancing experience. Like rain in July or overcooked tea—annoying, inevitable, and vaguely comforting in its predictability.

    So next time you find yourself staring at an email that reads like a Jane Austen rejection letter, just smile. Remember: You’re the reasonable one. The calm, capable, caffeine-fuelled legal wizard bringing people closer to their dream home—despite the chaos.

    Now go forth and complete! 🏡

    ⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |

  • Kindness Isn’t Weakness: Why It Matters in Law.

    Kindness Isn’t Weakness: Why It Matters in Law.

    In a profession often associated with sharp suits, sharper words, and the relentless pursuit of results, kindness might not seem like a core legal skill. But here is something I have found: kindness is a quiet superpower. As solicitors, we’re trained to advocate, to challenge, and to push boundaries — but please, not at the cost of our humanity. Whether it’s with clients, colleagues, or the unsung heroes behind the scenes (yes, I’m talking about the admin staff who actually keep the place running), kindness matters.

    With Clients: Building Trust, Beyond the Billable Hour

    Clients come to us in some of the most stressful moments of their lives — buying a home, ending a marriage, facing criminal charges, or fighting for their business. They need more than legal jargon and timesheets. They need reassurance. They need someone who listens without rushing, explains without patronising, and shows empathy without judgement.

    Kindness here doesn’t mean sugar-coating the facts or avoiding difficult truths. I have found that it means delivering them with respect and compassion. A kind solicitor is memorable — not because they charged the least, but because they treated the client like a human being, not just a file number.

    With Colleagues: Drop the Ego, Lift the Team

    Law firm culture can sometimes be… intense. Long hours, big egos, and internal competition can breed a “survival of the fittest” mentality. I found this especially true when trainees were fighting for that hard to get training contract – cut throat! But I am proof that it doesn’t have to be that way. I have always found in my career that the best teams — the ones that are resilient, productive, and dare I say, enjoyable to be in — are rooted in mutual respect and kindness.

    That means checking in on the junior who’s drowning in bundles. That means giving credit where it’s due, not just when it benefits your reputation. That means saying thank you — yes, even in an email.

    Kindness isn’t soft. It’s strategic. It builds loyalty, improves morale, and frankly, makes the workplace more tolerable for all of us.

    With Admin Staff: No Kindness, No Functioning Office

    I have absolutely no doubt that without the admin staff — receptionists, secretaries, post-room heroes and others — our legal empires would collapse. And yet, too often, they’re overlooked or spoken to as if their roles are somehow lesser. They’re not.

    Kindness here is simple: Treat admin staff with the same respect you’d give to a senior partner. Learn their names. Say good morning. Don’t dump last-minute tasks on them without context or gratitude. Recognise that their contribution is critical, not optional.

    In my experience, the solicitors who are consistently kind to admin staff tend to be the ones everyone wants to work with — and that reputation sticks.

    Final Thoughts: Kindness Isn’t a Luxury — It’s a Legacy

    As lawyers, we deal in rights, duties, and obligations. But let’s not forget the human side of law. Kindness doesn’t dilute professionalism — it deepens it. It builds trust, reduces conflict, and creates a working environment where people feel seen and valued.

    You won’t find kindness in the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s Code of Conduct or Law Society guidelines. But you will find it in every truly great lawyer I’ve ever met.

    And if we’re going to spend 60+ hours a week doing this job — we might as well do it in a way that leaves people better than we found them.

    Written by a solicitor who believes in being decent, even when the deadline looms and the printer’s jammed again.

    Links to Social Media Accounts
    Instagram – @learninglawyeruk
    Twitter – @LearningLawyer
    Threads – @learninglawyeruk

  • 8 Tips to Nail Your Training Contract Application!

    8 Tips to Nail Your Training Contract Application!

    With training contract deadlines around the corner, your application is your shot to stand out in a sea of talented candidates. I’ve been in your shoes and I was staring at a blank form, unsure how to make my application shine. After learning the ropes, here’s what I wish I’d known earlier:

    1. Proofread Like Your Future Depends on It
      Spelling and grammar mistakes are an easy fix—but they matter. Get a fresh set of eyes to review your application. A friend or family member might catch what you missed.
    2. Go Beyond the Website
      It’s not enough to repeat what’s on the firm’s website. Dig into their values, culture, and practice areas. Research helps you find the right fit, not just impress them.
    3. Highlight Non-Legal Experience
      Your retail job or volunteer work matters! These experiences build valuable skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—show them off.
    4. Use the STAR Method
      Structure your examples with Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Don’t just list what you did—show how you made an impact.
    5. Tailor Each Application
      If you can swap out the firm’s name with another, you’re not being specific enough. Do your homework on each firm’s unique culture and values, and show how you align with them.
    6. Align Your Goals with the Firm’s Values
      Ask yourself why you want to work at a particular firm. Make it clear how your career ambitions match their mission and values.
    7. Be Authentic
      Don’t fake passion. Whether it’s a practice area or a current event, being genuine will make you stand out in interviews.
    8. Stay On Top of Commercial Awareness
      Start following news articles, podcasts, and case studies to build your commercial awareness. It’ll show you’re clued up on the industry.

    Final Thoughts:
    Your application is more than a form—it’s your opportunity to show why you belong. Take the time to reflect, refine, and let your personality shine.

  • Training Contract Time – How to Make Your CV Stand Out!

    Training Contract Time – How to Make Your CV Stand Out!

    Judging from the number of CV’s and general emails the firm I work in is getting from potential trainees and law students aiming for a training contract, it must be that time of year again. I refer to the autumn period where firms start having open evenings and coffee morning – asking potential trainees to attend to explain why they should all fight for the limited spaces they offer for them to “slog it out” in order to land a rare and valuable training contract. Trying to obtain a training contract has always been a skill in itself with more people applying for the limited places there are. They are highly competitive and as time has went on, it is not as simple as just sending your CV, having an interview and hopefully obtaining one. Yes, crafting a standout CV is crucial to getting noticed and getting a foot in the door, but most firms now have tests you need to do, interviews in 3 or 4 stages and what would feel like some kind of psychological evaluation just to get an offer, never mind the fact that it all hinges on successfully passing the Institute exam in Northern Ireland.

    Thankfully there are still some firms, who go on the old CV basis which is where it all starts. You need to get this right to even get a response or get noticed. So here are a few tips which I found useful and hopefully you will too.

    1. Start with a Strong Profile Summary

    Your profile summary is your introduction to your potential firm for the next number of years who are going to take you under their wings and spend time and money on you. Use it to briefly showcase your motivations, experience, and core competencies. Think of it as a mini-elevator pitch that emphasises your passion for law and commitment to a legal career as well as any would be firm who will take you on. If they are going to invest in you, you need to show some loyalty and willingness to stay with them for a short while and give something back. For example:

    “I am a motivated individual with a keen interest in corporate law and a solid foundation in contract and tort law. I am skilled in legal research, with practical experience in client-facing roles and I am committed.”

    Be concise but memorable. Tailor this summary to highlight specific skills or areas of law relevant to the firm’s practice. Off course you need to make it relevant to you and there is plenty of room to “jazz” it up.

    2. Highlight Relevant Experience

    While trainee roles often focus on learning, firms value prior experience that demonstrates your interest and initiative in the legal field. Emphasise:

    • Legal Internships or Work Placements: List any relevant legal roles, including summer placements, paralegal work, or shadowing experiences. Focus on specific tasks, like conducting research, drafting documents, or attending client meetings, that showcase your skills.

    • Transferable Experience: If your background includes other types of work (e.g., retail, service industry), highlight skills that translate to a legal environment. Examples include customer service, attention to detail, and handling sensitive information.

    • Pro Bono Work or Volunteering: Many firms value commitment to social justice. If you have volunteered with a legal aid clinic, been part of a student-led legal advice organisation, or taken part in community initiatives, mention it to illustrate your dedication.

    3. Emphasise Academic Achievements and Awards

    Academic excellence is still highly valued, especially at the trainee level. If you received high marks in law-related courses, or if your dissertation or project focused on a relevant topic, mention it. Any awards, scholarships, or recognitions should also be highlighted, as they demonstrate hard work, knowledge, and commitment.

    4. Showcase Legal Skills and Technical Competencies

    Firms want to know that you’re already building a robust skill set. Focus on:

    • Legal Research and Analysis: Outline your familiarity with legal databases (such as LexisNexis or Westlaw), case law research, and document review. Provide examples of any coursework or projects that required these skills.

    • Writing and Drafting: Legal drafting is a key skill. If you’ve drafted documents in past roles or as part of your studies, such as legal memos, client letters, or even case summaries, include these examples to showcase your writing abilities.

    • Attention to Detail and Organisation: Law firms value accuracy. If you have experience proofreading, editing, or handling complex documents, mention this to show your ability to manage the precision required in legal work.

    5. Include Extracurricular Activities and Interests

    Your personal interests and hobbies provide insight into your character and can help you stand out. Activities that demonstrate teamwork, leadership, or commitment to ongoing learning are especially valuable. Examples include:

    • Debate or Mooting: If you participated in mooting competitions or a debate club, list these experiences to demonstrate public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking skills.

    • Student Society Roles: Mention any leadership roles, such as serving as a member of a law society or organising events. These roles show your initiative and teamwork abilities.

    • Additional Certifications or Courses: If you’ve taken additional courses, such as online classes in contract law or specific legal software training, highlight these to show a commitment to skill development.

    6. Tailor Your CV for Each Application

    Generic CVs often fall flat. Tailor each CV specifically for the firm you’re applying to. Research the firm’s practice areas, values, and recent cases, and adjust your CV to show how your background aligns with their needs. For example, if applying to a firm specialising in corporate law, emphasise your knowledge and interest in commercial law.

    7. Perfect the Presentation and Formatting

    Make your CV easy to read, professional, and visually appealing. Use consistent formatting, a clean layout, and bullet points to make key information stand out. Ensure your font is professional and that the CV doesn’t exceed two pages.

    Consider using these sections:

    • Contact Information

    • Profile Summary

    • Education

    • Relevant Experience

    • Legal Skills

    • Additional Experience

    • Extracurricular Activities

    • Interests

    8. Proofread and Get Feedback

    Errors can undermine an otherwise strong CV. Proofread multiple times and, if possible, ask a mentor, career advisor at University, a solicitor you know or friend to review it. Simple mistakes can make a poor impression, so ensure your CV is polished and error-free.

    Final Thoughts

    Your CV is your first chance to make an impression, so make it count. Be strategic, emphasise your strengths, and show the firm that you’re more than just a capable candidate—you’re a future solicitor with the drive to excel.

    Often in Northern Ireland we tend to undersell ourselves and be too modest. Off course there is a balance, but don’t be afraid to tell it as it is and if you have things to be proud of which highlight just how good you are, promote them and emphasise them. Don’t be shy – NO-ONE ELSE WILL BE!

  • Navigating Law Exam Finals with Confidence: Tips and Strategies for Success.

    As a past law student, I know that finals can be one of the most challenging and stressful times in the life of a potential solicitor. The volume of material, the complexity of legal concepts, and the pressure to perform can feel overwhelming. However, with the right approach, preparation, and mindset, you can tackle your law exam finals confidently and successfully. Here are some practical tips and advice to help you navigate this crucial period.

    1. Start Early and Plan Ahead

    Procrastination is the enemy of success, especially when it comes to law exams. Start your preparation early to give yourself ample time to review and understand the material. Create a detailed study schedule that outlines what you need to study and when. Breaking down the material into manageable chunks can make the task seem less daunting and help you stay organised.

    2. Understand the Exam Format

    Different law exams may have different formats, such as multiple-choice questions, essays, or practical problem-solving scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the format of each exam you’ll be taking. Practice past exam papers or sample questions to get a feel for the structure and types of questions that may be asked. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.

    3. Create Effective Study Materials

    Summarise your notes, create outlines, and develop flashcards for key concepts and cases. Highlight important information and use mnemonics to remember complex details. These study materials will be invaluable for quick reviews and reinforcing your understanding of the subject matter.

    4. Join Study Groups

    Collaborating with peers in study groups can be highly beneficial. Discussing and explaining concepts to others can deepen your understanding and reveal different perspectives. Study groups can also provide moral support and keep you motivated during the intense exam preparation period.

    5. Focus on Key Areas

    Identify the most important topics and areas that are likely to be tested. Lecturers often emphasise certain subjects during lectures, and past exam papers can give you insights into recurring themes. Prioritise these areas in your study plan to ensure you cover the critical material thoroughly.

    6. Practice Writing Essays

    The exams often require well-structured and articulate essays. Practice writing essays under timed conditions to improve your writing skills and speed. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, and logical flow of arguments. Ensure you address the question directly and support your answers with relevant legal principles and cases.

    7. Stay Healthy

    Your physical and mental well-being is crucial during exam preparation. Maintain a healthy diet, get regular exercise, and ensure you get enough sleep. Taking care of your body will help you stay focused, energised, and able to retain information more effectively.

    8. Manage Stress

    Stress is a natural part of the exam process, but it’s important to manage it effectively. Practice relaxation techniques, something which I was never good at. I know some friends did yoga, gym or I just took the dog for a walk or went for a swim. Take regular breaks during study sessions to clear your mind and avoid burnout. Remember, a calm and focused mind is more productive.

    9. Seek Support

    Don’t hesitate to seek support from tutors, uni staff, mentors or fellow students if you’re feeling overwhelmed. They can provide guidance, someone to talk too and provide clarity.