Life of Newly Qualified UK Lawyer

Most Recent Posts from Learning Lawyer.

  • Writing emails to clients as a solicitor

    As a solicitor, effective communication with your clients is paramount to building trust, maintaining strong relationships, and delivering exceptional legal services. I have found that email is usually the primary means of correspondence. So, the question is what makes an email professional and makes the right impression on clients, ensuring clarity, professionalism and knowing you are coming across well to them.

    I think that the first thing is to make sure that you establish a Professional Tone. Maintaining a professional tone in emails is crucial. Always address clients respectfully, using appropriate salutations and formal language. Avoid jargon or legal terminology that clients may not understand. But, the number one rule is to be clear and simple while still maintaining the necessary level of professionalism.

    Try and see things from your client’s perspective. Try and consider your client’s level of legal knowledge and tailor your communication accordingly. Explain legal concepts and processes in a way that is easily understandable to them. Avoid overwhelming clients with excessive legal terminology or complex details.

    Think about the subject heading of your email. Craft subject lines that are concise, informative, and relevant to the content of the email. A clear subject line will help clients quickly identify the purpose and importance of your message. For example, instead of “Update,” use “Important Update Regarding Your Case: [Brief Description].”

    Structured and Organised Content.
    There is no excuse for sending sloppy email content to a client. Write in a logical and structured manner. Use paragraphs to separate different points or topics, making it easier for clients to follow along. Start with a brief introduction or summary of the purpose of your email. Present information in a sequential order. I have found that headings or bullet points for clarity work wonders with clients and will make your life easier as it will limit the back and fourth with questions and queries.

    Provide Context and Background.
    When discussing legal matters, it is essential to provide context and background information. Briefly summarise relevant events, case details, or any changes that have occurred since your last communication. This will help clients understand the context and relevance of your email, ensuring they are well-informed.

    Be Clear and Concise.
    Clients appreciate clear and concise communication. Use plain language to explain legal concepts, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complex terminology. Use short, focused sentences and avoid lengthy paragraphs to maintain readability.

    Anticipate and Address Questions.
    Consider the questions or concerns your clients may have after reading your email. Anticipate these queries and proactively address them in your message. Providing answers or suggestions in advance can save clients time and demonstrate your proactive approach to their legal matters.

    Proofread and Edit.
    This seems something that most would automatically do but I have found that in the heat of the moment and in the need to be quick and efficient this is often forgotten. Thoroughly proofread your emails before sending them. Correct any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure your message is clear and coherent. Pay attention to formatting, such as font styles and sizes, to maintain a professional appearance. A well-edited email reflects your attention to detail and professionalism as a solicitor.

    Respect Confidentiality and Security.
    As a solicitor, it is your duty to safeguard client confidentiality and sensitive information. Ensure you are using secure email platforms and take necessary precautions to protect client data. Be cautious about sharing sensitive information in emails and consider using encrypted attachments or secure file-sharing platforms when necessary.

    Timely Follow-Up.
    This one can is the one I find a solicitor can fall down on, and I include myself. Nothing annoys a client more than having to wait days for a response. Please, save yourself unnecessary heartache and respond to client emails promptly. Clients appreciate timely updates and acknowledgment of their concerns. Even if you cannot provide a detailed response immediately, acknowledge receipt of their email and set realistic expectations for when they can expect a thorough response.

    Without a doubt, effective email communication is an essential skill for solicitors to provide exceptional legal services and maintain strong client relationships. By adopting a professional tone, providing clear and concise information, and anticipating client questions, you can enhance your email correspondence and ensure that your clients feel valued and well-informed throughout as well as save yourself from heartache and fighting “battles” that don’t need to be fought!

    I’d love to hear from you and your thoughts. Follow me on Instagram @learninglawyeruk or email me at hello@learninglawyer.co.uk

  • Working with legal secretaries – my experience.

    Without a doubt, whether you are a trainee or solicitor, whether in a big firm or small local one, you will come across Legal secretaries. They are without doubt, an essential part of any law firm. They perform a wide range of tasks, from managing calendars and scheduling appointments to drafting legal documents and preparing for court appearances. In short, they keep the law firm running smoothly and I have found, worth their weight in gold!

    Given the importance of their role, it is essential that we solicitors treat their secretaries with respect and courtesy. I have been amazed at how some, including trainees and legal executives, in the past firms I’ve worked with have treated the legal secretaries as beneath them and underestimated their abilities vastly! I have found the opposite to be true, where legal secretaries know a huge amount, and have a vast amount of experience in many areas of law. I have often relied on them for help and advice and they have often come to my aid. I think, starting as a NQ, you should keep the following in mind;

    • Be polite and professional. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. Secretaries are professionals, and they deserve to be treated as such. Always use a respectful tone of voice, and treat them as you would want to be treated.
    • Be clear and concise in your instructions. Secretaries are busy people, often doing work for two or three different solicitors, so it’s important to be clear and concise when you give them instructions. This will help to ensure that they understand what you need and that they can complete the task as quickly and efficiently as possible.
    • Be appreciative of their work. Secretaries often go above and beyond their job descriptions. Take the time to thank them for their hard work and let them know that you appreciate their contributions to the law firm. It costs nothing to do and makes them feel part of the team. If they feel you appreciate them, believe me, they will do what they can for you.
    • Be open to feedback. Secretaries are often in a position to see things that solicitors don’t. If they have a suggestion or a recommendation, be open to hearing it. They may be able to offer valuable insights that can help you to improve your work. I often would give my secretary my bill drafts to review, and other documents to clients. They have founds things I’ve missed and saved me future hassle.

    Here are some additional tips for treating your secretary in a law firm:

    • Be respectful of their time. Don’t expect them to drop everything they’re doing to answer your questions or complete your requests. If you need something urgently, let them know ahead of time.
    • Be organised. If you have a lot of tasks that need to be completed, try to organise them in a way that makes sense for your secretary. This will help them to prioritise their work and to get things done more efficiently.
    • Be flexible. Things don’t always go according to plan, so be prepared to be flexible with your secretary. If they need to adjust their schedule or take on additional work, be understanding and supportive.
    • Be communicative. If you have any questions or concerns about your secretary’s work, be sure to communicate them in a clear and respectful way. This will help to ensure that you’re both on the same page and that any problems can be resolved quickly and easily.

    Essentially, just remember that your secretary is going to be vital to you and treat them with respect and from time to time show them that you value their work and that you appreciate their contributions to the law firm. This will help to create a positive and productive work environment for everyone involved.

  • The Positive Aspects of Taking the Legal Practice Course

    I am sure if you are reading this, you already know quite a bit about The Legal Practice Course (LPC). For those who may not be as familiar, this is a postgraduate qualification that is required for anyone who wants to become a solicitor in England and Wales. There is no sugar coating the fact that it is a demanding course, but it also offers a number of positive aspects that can benefit your career.

    1. Gaining practical skills

    The LPC is focused on the practical skills that lawyers use day to day. This includes skills such as legal research, drafting legal documents, and advocacy, amongst other things. I found that my skills in organisation, priortising and writing improved, mainly due to the fact that you have so much to do in such a short period of time, you need to use these regularly, just to keep you “head above water.” By having these skills you will also be set for your training contract and have a base to go from when you are in the professional legal world!

    2. Networking with other future lawyers

    One of the great benefits is that the LPC is a great opportunity to network with other future lawyers. You will meet people from different law schools and different backgrounds, and you will build relationships that could be valuable in your career. Indeed, my class mates and I had a WhatsApp group where we stayed in touch throughout the time and after the LPC. It was a great source of support and chance to let off steam when things did not go to plan and chat about how everyone else was finding it.

    3. Getting a taste of different areas of law

    The LPC allows you to sample different areas of law. This is a great way to discover which areas of law you are most interested in and which areas you might want to specialise in.

    4. Improving your legal knowledge

    The LPC will give you a deeper understanding of the law and will focus in on areas which before you will only have had an overview, whereas this will focus in and give you a greater understanding.

    5. Opening up new career opportunities

    The LPC can open up new career opportunities. For example, if you are interested in working in the in-house legal department of a company, the LPC will give you the skills and knowledge that you need to be successful in this type of role.

    Conclusion

    The Legal Practice Course is a demanding course, but it also offers a number of positive aspects that can benefit your career and will impact you on a personal level also. Off course, the SQE is now, for the majority the way to go as the LPC route is phased out. However, there are those who will have the choice to do both and I would recommend it. You will develop transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork and it will help you grow on both professional and personal levels. If you are able to do the LPC route, it is worth a think.

    Off course, if you have any questions, drop me an email or check me out on instagram!

    Email – hello@learninglawyer.co.uk

    Instagram – @learninglawyeruk

  • How to create a good impression as a Trainee Solicitor.

    During my time as a Trainee I had good days and bad. Some were tougher than others and there were times, I questioned if the legal world was for me. But I pressed on and worked through everything with support from work colleagues and others. Here are a few things I learnt!

    • Be enthusiastic. Show your supervisors that you are eager to learn and that you are interested in the work. This will make you a more enjoyable person to work with and it will also make you more likely to be given challenging assignments.
    • Be proactive. Don’t wait to be told what to do. Take initiative and look for ways to contribute to the team. This will show your supervisors that you are a valuable asset to the firm.
    • Be reliable. Be someone that your supervisors can rely on to get the job done. This means being on time for work, meeting deadlines, and following instructions carefully.
    • Be resilient. The legal profession can be challenging at times. There will be times when you make mistakes and there will be times when you feel overwhelmed. It is important to be able to bounce back from these challenges and to keep moving forward.
    • Be personable. Get to know your colleagues and build relationships with them. This will make your time as a trainee more enjoyable and it will also make it easier for you to ask for help when you need it.
    • Be visible. Make sure that your supervisors and colleagues know that you are there and that you are willing to contribute. This means attending meetings, participating in discussions, and volunteering for new assignments.

    As always, these are just a few things, but it is also worth trying to do some other things which I’ve spoken about before, but I feel they are important.

    • Take good notes. This will help you to remember what you have been taught and to refer back to it later.
    • Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Your supervisors and colleagues are there to help you learn.
    • Be organised. This will help you to stay on top of your work and to meet deadlines.
    • Use technology to your advantage.There are many legal technology tools available that can help you to be more efficient and productive.
    • Take care of yourself. The legal profession can be demanding, so it is important to make time for your health and well-being. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly.

    I hope these tips help you to be a successful trainee solicitor.

  • Tips on Staying Organised!

    As a solicitor, you will need to juggle a lot of different tasks and responsibilities. It can be very easy to feel overwhelmed and disorganised. However, there are a few simple things that I have discovered, often the hard way, that you can do to stay on top of things and avoid burnout.

    Here is what I found out, which I hope helps you:-

    1. Create a system for organising your work. This could involve using a physical filing system, a project management tool, or a combination of both. Find a system that works for you and stick to it.
    2. Set deadlines for yourself. This will help you stay on track and avoid procrastination.
    3. Delegate tasks when possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your colleagues or paralegals.
    4. Take breaks throughout the day. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air. This will help you stay focused and avoid fatigue.
    5. Take care of yourself. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating as healthy as you can and get some exercise regularly. This will help you stay mentally and physically healthy, which will make it easier to stay organised. Believe me, it sounds easy, but is more difficult than it seems! But it is worth a try and it has helped me a lot.

    Following these tips can help you stay organised and productive as a solicitor. By taking the time to develop a system for organising your work, setting deadlines, delegating tasks, taking breaks, and taking care of yourself, you can avoid burnout and achieve your goals.

    Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

    • Use a calendar to track deadlines and appointments.
    • Create a to-do list and prioritise your tasks.
    • Use a system for filing documents and records.
    • Keep a notebook or journal to jot down ideas and notes.
    • Take advantage of technology. There are many software programs and apps that can help you stay organised.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to your colleagues, paralegals, or supervisor for assistance.

    The above is not full proof and there are days I struggle but the one thing that I have found to be vital is to keep a physical note of thoughts, cases, calls, things to do or comments made that are important. Despite your best intentions to remember things, your mind and thoughts are going to be pulled in hundreds of directions daily and you will never remember everything. Keep notes!

  • Dealing with disappointment as a solicitor.

    As a solicitor, you will inevitably face disappointment at some point in your career. This could be due to a number of factors, such as losing a case, having a client withdraw their instructions, or simply not being able to achieve the outcome that your client was hoping for.

    It is important to remember that disappointment is going to be a normal part of your life as a solicitor – not everything is going to go to plan all of the time. Sometimes you just have to make the best of a bad situation and try to get “back on the horse” as the expression states.

    Here are a few tips on how to deal with disappointment as a solicitor which I have picked up:

    1. Allow yourself to feel your emotions. It is important to acknowledge your feelings of disappointment and allow yourself to feel them. Bottling up your emotions will only make them worse in the long run. You are not a robot – you are still human and do not have to keep a robot type persona running all the time.
    2. Talk to someone you trust. Talking to a friend, family member or even in house therapist (for use of better word) can help you to process your emotions and develop coping mechanisms.
    3. Take some time for yourself. After a disappointment, it is important to take some time for yourself to relax and recharge. This could involve spending time with loved ones, doing something you enjoy, or simply taking a break from work.
    4. Learn from your mistakes. Every disappointment is an opportunity to learn and grow. Take some time to reflect on what went wrong and what you could have done differently.
    5. Focus on the positive. It is easy to get caught up in the negative when you experience disappointment. However, it is important to focus on the positive aspects of your life and career. Remember all of the successes you have had and all of the people who support you.

    Dealing with disappointment is never easy, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. By following these tips, you can learn to cope with disappointment in a healthy and productive manner.

    In addition to the tips above, here are a few additional things that you can do to deal with disappointment as a solicitor:

    • Seek professional help. If you are struggling to cope with disappointment on your own, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
    • Join a support group. There are many support groups available for solicitors who are dealing with disappointment. Joining a support group can provide you with a safe space to share your experiences and connect with others who understand what you are going through.
    • Take a break from work. If you are feeling overwhelmed by disappointment, it may be helpful to take a break from work. This could involve taking a few days off, working from home, or reducing your workload.
    • Focus on your self-care. When you are feeling disappointed, it is important to focus on your self-care. This could involve eating healthy, exercising, getting enough sleep, and spending time with loved ones.

    Dealing with disappointment is a challenge, but it is one that you can overcome. By following the tips above, you can learn to cope with disappointment in a healthy and productive manner.

  • Working with Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Legal World.

    In today’s rapidly evolving world, technological advancements have permeated every aspect of our lives. One such groundbreaking development is the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI has already made significant strides in numerous fields, and the legal sector is no exception. As AI continues to mature, its potential to change the way things are done in the every day solicitor’s office is exciting, if not terrifying. What are the benefits and challenges, and its potential to shape the future of legal systems?

    AI in Legal Research and Case Analysis:

    One of the most prominent applications of AI in the legal profession is in legal research and case analysis. Traditionally, lawyers and legal professionals spent countless hours poring over vast amounts of legal documents to find relevant information. However, with the advent of AI-powered tools, this process has been significantly streamlined. AI algorithms can efficiently analyse large volumes of legal texts, statutes, case law, and legal opinions to extract relevant information and provide valuable insights. These AI tools not only save time and effort but also enhance accuracy and comprehensiveness in legal research.

    AI-Powered Contract Analysis and Due Diligence:

    Another area where AI is making waves is contract analysis and due diligence. Legal contracts are complex documents that require meticulous review to identify critical clauses, potential risks, and compliance issues. AI-powered contract analysis tools utilise natural language processing and machine learning techniques to review and extract key information from contracts swiftly. These tools can flag potential risks, inconsistencies, and non-compliance, allowing lawyers to focus on higher-level analysis and decision-making.

    Legal Prediction and Case Outcome Analysis:

    AI is also being employed to predict legal outcomes and analyse case data. By leveraging historical data and machine learning algorithms, AI systems can identify patterns, correlations, and factors that contribute to the success or failure of legal cases. These predictive analytics can assist lawyers in assessing the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments, estimating potential settlement values, and making informed decisions about case strategy.

    Challenges and Ethical Considerations:

    While the integration of AI in law offers numerous benefits, it also raises several challenges and ethical considerations. Privacy concerns, biases in AI algorithms, and the potential for job displacement are among the key issues that need to be addressed. Transparency and accountability in AI systems are crucial to ensure fair and unbiased outcomes. It is essential to strike a balance between the efficiency and accuracy provided by AI and the need for human judgment and legal expertise.

    The Future of AI and Law:

    Looking ahead, AI is poised to have an even greater impact on the legal landscape. Predictive analytics and AI-powered decision-support systems may assist judges in assessing the merits of cases, reducing subjectivity and improving consistency in judgments. AI tools can also facilitate legal process automation, including document generation, e-discovery, and legal project management. Additionally, advancements in natural language processing and machine learning will enhance the capabilities of AI systems, enabling more complex legal analysis and nuanced understanding of legal concepts.

    Conclusion:

    AI has the potential to transform the legal profession, offering efficiency, accuracy, and improved access to justice. By automating routine tasks, providing legal insights, and streamlining processes, AI enables legal professionals to focus on the things that matter whilst leaving the general tasks to what seems to be an efficient process. I am skeptical, and think that I personally have Moree confidence in an actual person dealing with my information and case and giving the human touch to what could be a very bland and generic document. Time will tell, but for now, let’s keep the humans in law!

  • Work Life Balance for a Newly Qualified Solicitor

    The legal profession is known for its demanding nature, long hours, and high levels of stress. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging for an experienced solicitor, never mind a newly qualified one who is trying to impress and build a career. It is essential for overall well-being and professional success to try and figure our some kind of balance, and important to remember that what may work for me, may not work for someone else. Here are some thoughts and things I have learnt:-

    1. Set Clear Boundaries
    2. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Define specific working hours and stick to them as much as possible. Avoid checking emails or taking work calls during non-working hours unless it is an emergency. Communicate these boundaries to colleagues and clients to manage expectations effectively.
    4. Prioritize and Delegate
    5. Efficient time management is crucial in the legal profession. Prioritise tasks based on urgency and importance, and focus on high-value activities. Delegate non-essential tasks to colleagues or support staff whenever possible. Learning to delegate effectively allows you to reduce your workload and free up time for personal commitments.
    7. Schedule Personal Time
    8. Intentionally schedule personal time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, exercising, or simply unwinding, allocate dedicated slots in your calendar. Treating personal time as non-negotiable will help maintain a healthy work-life balance.
    10. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
    11. The legal profession can be stressful, so it’s essential to develop healthy coping mechanisms. Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as regular exercise, meditation, or mindfulness practices. Consider seeking support from mentors, therapists, or support groups to help manage work-related pressures.
    13. Learn to Say No
    14. As a newly qualified solicitor, there will always be demands on your time and you will want to take on as much as possible to impress and show that you can handle and manage your workload. However, it’s important to recognise your limits and learn to say no when necessary. Overcommitting yourself can lead to burnout and negatively impact both your work and personal life. Prioritise your well-being by setting reasonable limits on your workload.
    16. Utilise Technology and Flexibility
    17. Embrace technology to enhance efficiency and flexibility. Take advantage of legal software, productivity tools, and virtual collaboration platforms to streamline tasks and enable remote work when appropriate. Embracing flexible work arrangements can help you better manage your time and achieve a healthier work-life balance.
    19. Communicate with Your Firm or Supervisor
    20. If you are struggling to maintain a work-life balance, have an open and honest conversation with your firm or supervisor. I have found that my manager and firm are very understanding and willing to help and assist if you speak and be honest about the struggles you may be having. I have never found myself being singled out and “punished” for speaking the truth.

    Finding a work-life balance in the field of law is a continuous effort, but it is crucial for your personal well-being and long-term success. By setting boundaries, prioritising tasks, scheduling personal time, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and utilising technology and flexibility, you can navigate the demands of the legal profession while still maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Remember, taking care of yourself is not only essential for your happiness but also enhances your ability to serve your clients effectively.

  • Tips for a New Solicitor

    So almost 6 months of being a newly qualified solicitor/lawyer have gone and to say it has been a learning curve, would be to undersell it. I. like to think that all newly qualified solicitors go through the same thing. A journey of discovery, self doubt, nervousness, overwhelming fear – to name but a few emotions. If I was to write down a few tips for my colleagues current and those of you to come to remember, these would be the top ones.

    1. Treat everyone with courtesy. Be that estate agents, brokers, assistants / secretaries. It’s a small world. You don’t know who you might come across again;
    2. A mistake is rarely a major problem if it is identified quickly and you take action to inform superiors. Trying to fix the mistake yourself, or concealing the mistake can very quickly lead you down the rabbit hole towards dishonesty. Never take this path. Own up, talk to someone whether your supervisor or senior solicitor, own it, fix it or limit the damage, learn from it and move on;
    3. You will have a complaint made about you at some point. Don’t take it personally. Take a step back and evaluate your conduct. Could you have prevented it ? Learn from it;
    4. Make friends out of the solicitors you deal with on a regular basis if in a field such as conveyancing which is tough, lonely & demanding. A good rapport will not only help you but will make for a better process. Off course, this is not always possible in litigation or other areas but good manners and courtesy cost nothing;
    5. Manage expectations. A large majority of complaints received by firms could be negated if the clients expectations are managed from the start of the process and regular contact is kept with them. Even if there is nothing to report, it does not hurt to send a quick email to touch base which reassures them that you are on the job;
    6. Network, network, network – something I am not good at but go to the professional development courses and meet your colleagues. Talk and connect – you never know what could come off it.

    Hopefully, these will be off use to someone who reads this. Also, please feel free to connect with me:

    Twitter – @LearingLawyer

  • What about me?

    When I launched this blog, I was so eager to get writing that I skipped over a proper introduction. So here it is.

    I qualified as a solicitor in 2022, but my journey to qualification wasn’t exactly a straight line. I originally graduated with an LL.B in Law and Government Policy back in 2003, before taking some time away from the legal world (as far as possible, in fact!). Eventually, I found my way back, working as a Legal Executive before deciding—thanks to encouragement from my family and a supportive partner in the firm—to qualify fully through the LPC route, just before the SQE took over.

    It wasn’t easy. I studied the LPC part-time while working, built up my two years’ qualifying work experience, and completed the Professional Skills Course at the University of Law. By summer 2022, I’d ticked all the boxes and crossed the finish line. There were plenty of bumps along the way, but with the backing of my family, I made it. (I still haven’t booked my graduation ceremony in London… but I’ll get around to it!)

    Now, I work in the Private Client world—wills, probate, estate administration, residential conveyancing—with the occasional dabble in civil litigation.

    Why this blog? Simple: I want to share my journey, the lessons I’ve learned, and the mistakes I’ve made, to help students and newly qualified solicitors find their way through this profession. Everyone’s road is different, but if my experiences can help even one person feel more confident—or avoid a pitfall I stumbled into—then it’s worth writing.

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