Tag: law career

  • 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.

  • Administration – Is it necessary?

    Watching TV shows like Ally McBeal and Suits, to name but a couple, you get the impression of this high-powered, high-stress, always-on-the-go job which is portrayed as being the norm if you become a solicitor. I hate to burst any bubbles, but in reality, that is, for the most part, not the case. Of course, there are times when excitement pertaining to court cases and the like happens, but solicitors are responsible for a wide range of tasks outside of the TV-portrayed excitement, which often takes up the bulk of a legal professional’s time. This includes providing legal advice and representation to clients, drafting legal documents, and conducting legal research. As well as that, there are always a number of administrative tasks that will need to be completed in order to keep everything flowing smoothly and to avoid calamity. Whether the solicitor does it themselves (which being the control freak that I am, I often do) or farms these out to paralegals, trainees, or junior solicitors, is a matter for the individual. One thing is for sure, if they are not doing it themselves, supervision will be needed and they will ultimately need to check and make sure that everything is correct, as they will need to sign off on them and it will be their “head on the block” if things are not as they should be.

    I have had a think through my daily tasks and have listed some of the most common administrative tasks that I do:

    • Managing client files: This includes organising and maintaining client files, as well as ensuring that all relevant documents are filed in a timely manner. This may include post from third parties related to the case or documents and items from the client. It is true that a lot of this is now done electronically and stored on an e-system, but I like having a folder containing the most pertinent information that I can look at and use at a glance. I think it also looks a bit more professional when meeting a client, that they can see a physical folder and not a laptop in front of them. It makes it a bit more personal. I think that the era of pen and paper is still here – not completely gone just yet!
    • Scheduling appointments: This includes scheduling meetings with clients, opposing counsel, and other professionals. I usually do this as I like to have full control of when I am seeing someone and gauge how much preparation time I will need before the meeting and in some cases, how much recovery time I will need after! Of course, if you have a secretary who knows you and knows your preferences and quirks, they probably can do this just as well and it is one less thing for you to keep hold of.
    • Filing documents: This includes filing documents with the court, as well as with other government agencies and solicitors. Although I get someone else to draft these papers, I look over, edit, amend, and approve them before asking a paralegal to serve.
    • Preparing correspondence: This includes preparing letters, emails, and other documents for clients. Alas, this is the bulk of a solicitor’s work. Although, this can be dictated and secretaries do the “writing”, I often find it quicker and easier to do a lot of this myself. The main reason is that I think my thought processes would be difficult for a poor secretary to figure out, and it would cause them stress and time trying to do this for me. This is ultimately, up to the individual solicitor and their way of dealing with this may be different from mine. There is no wrong way – you just find a way and system that works for you and go with it.

    Depending on the type of work that the solicitor is mainly engaged in and what the area is that they practice in there are other exciting elements such as:-

    • Drafting legal documents: This includes drafting contracts, wills, and other legal documents.
    • Negotiating settlements: This includes negotiating settlements with opposing parties.
    • Litigation: This includes providing support to lawyers during litigation, such as preparing witness statements and exhibits.

    The administrative tasks that a solicitor performs can be demanding and time-consuming, but they are essential and required. Over the past year practicing as a qualified solicitor, I have found the following to be critical in ensuring things run smoothly without hassle:-

    • Use a document management system: A document management system can help you to organise and store your client files and believe me it will save time, hassle and stress in the long run.
    • Automate as much as possible: There are a number of tasks that can be automated, such as scheduling appointments and sending out reminders. Automating these tasks can free up your time so that you can focus on more important things. This will depend a lot of how the company that you work for functions and what they have in place to assist with this. You may find that this may not be available to you and will rely on your secretary or paralegal.
    • Delegate tasks: If you have the ability to delegate tasks to others, such as legal secretaries or paralegals, do so. This can help you to free up your time and focus on the tasks that only you can do.
  • One Year Post Qualification – thoughts and musings.

    Yikes! That went fast! It has now been one year since I qualified as a solicitor. It feels like just yesterday when the time between training and qualification, but only a few months seemed like a lifetime. Waiting for that confirmation that my practicing certificate had been granted and I had been admitted into the noble profession I had worked so hard to get into. But now, I’m a fully-fledged solicitor, with all the responsibilities and challenges that that entails. I have documented some of those difficulties for you to read, and I really hope that you have enjoyed and gleaned something from my own experiences – both good and bad!

    There is no doubt in my mind that it has been a steep learning curve, moving from apprentice solicitor (with some form of safety net) to full-on solicitor, working things out as I go with sometimes a little dread and fear but marching on anyway. All being said I have loved every minute of it. I’ve had the opportunity to work on many cases and take responsibility for them. Meet and work for some amazing clients, some of whom have terrified me and some who have made me laugh a great deal with their amazing sense of humour and attitude to life. I have continued to learn much about the law and seem to learn new things each and every day. I work with amazing colleagues who guide and support me.

    Of course, there have been some tough times too. There have been cases that have been emotionally draining, and there have been times when I’ve felt like I’ve been in over my head. But I’ve always managed to pick myself up and keep going with the help of those around me. One of the main things that will stick with me is that you should never be afraid to ask for help or talk to someone. We sometimes have this idea that we are expected to work and deal with things on our own, but that is certainly not the case.

    One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about being a solicitor is the feeling of making a difference. I know that the work I do can help people, and that’s a really rewarding feeling.

    I’m still at the beginning of my career, but I’m excited to see what the future holds. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn and grow, and to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

    Here are some of the things I’ve learned in my first year as a solicitor:

    • The law is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date.
    • It’s essential to be able to think on your feet and adapt to new situations.
    • Communication is key. You need to be able to clearly explain complex legal concepts to clients.
    • Problem-solving is an essential skill. You’ll often be faced with difficult cases that require creative solutions.
    • Resilience is important. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or defeated, but it’s important to keep going.
    • Never feel alone – speak up and ask for advice, help or someone else’s opinion – a fresh perspective can be a great help!

    If you’re thinking about becoming a solicitor, here are a few things I would recommend:

    • Get as much experience as you can. Volunteer at a law firm or legal aid clinic.
    • Get involved in extracurricular activities related to law. This will help you develop your legal skills and network with other lawyers.
    • Do your research and choose a law school that’s a good fit for you.
    • Be prepared to work hard. Becoming a solicitor is a challenging but rewarding career.

    Here is to year 1 and hopefully many more to come. I would love to hear from you and be able to advise help, guide or just read an email from a reader and your thoughts. Email me at hello@learninglawyer.co.uk or reach out on Threads, X(Twitter), or Instagram.

  • How to decide on what area of Law to Specialise in.

    My main areas of practice are private client and residential conveyancing. The question a lot of trainees ask themselves during their training period, is what area to qualify into. Some may already have a good idea and know exactly what they are going to practice. Equally, quite a number, like myself, will be less sure and will be dipping their feet into different areas during their training contract in order to get an idea of what to go into. It is a big decision as it will affect your career path, your salary, and your overall satisfaction with your work. So how do you choose the right area of law for you?

    Here are a few things to consider:

    • Your interests. What are you passionate about? What kind of work do you find stimulating and rewarding? If you’re not interested in the subject matter, you’re less likely to be successful in it. I know that some will not have a choice in the firm they are with and it may be a case of sticking with it until you find somewhere that will offer you the role and area you want to go into. I was fortunate that I was doing my training in a firm which settled me into the areas I wanted to practice in and once qualified, I “hit the road running!”
    • Your skills and abilities. What are you good at? What kind of work do you enjoy doing? If you have natural talents and abilities in a particular area, you’ll be more likely to succeed in that area of law.
    • The job market. What are the job prospects in the area of law you’re interested in? Is there a demand for solicitors with your skills and experience gained during your training period. It is often the case though that the areas of work you want may not be available. More often than not the most popular areas of law like litigation, corporate etc are filled and many companies recruit from within. Some areas of law like conveyancing will have a lot of vacancies as they seem to be areas lacking professionals. Many maybe think this area does not provide as much glory but it is a very highly skilled area, worth going into.
    • Your career goals. What do you want to achieve in your career? Do you want to work in a big law firm? Start your own practice? Do public interest work? Your career goals should also factor into your decision about what area of law to specialise in.

    Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. Just from looking at my own friends who qualified along with me, here are a few of the most popular areas of law I found them going into:-

    • Corporate law: This area of law deals with the legal issues that businesses face. Corporate solicitors help businesses with a wide range of matters, such as mergers and acquisitions, securities law, and contract law. Usually big international firms are offering this area and from what my friends have said there can be many perks, but equally a lot is demanded in terms of work hours and dedication to the job.
    • Intellectual property law: This area of law protects the creative works and inventions of individuals and businesses. Intellectual property solicitors help clients with copyright, trademark, and patent law.
    • Criminal law: This area of law deals with the prosecution and defense of individuals accused of crimes. It can take quite some time to establish yourself so worth getting in early and having a mentor to train and help you as your progress.
    • Civil litigation: This area of law deals with disputes between individuals and businesses. Civil litigators represent clients in a wide range of cases, such as personal injury, contract disputes, and employment law as well as land and boundary issues and other matters. Again, worth getting in early and having a mentor to train and help you get to grips with the practicalities of this area of law.
    • Family law: This area of law deals with the legal issues that arise from divorce, child custody, and adoption. This area of law can be emotionally charged and very draining but equally rewarding both personally and professionally.
    • Residential Conveyancing: Often a forgotten area and treated as a “hobby” by many firms to help bring in revenue quickly and have a cash flow as other areas are “long burners” and often payment could be years down the road whilst in conveyancing it is months. This is a highly specialised area as it takes someone very particular and aware of the nuances of land law in order to do it right. Often trained solicitors in this area are lacking and often as a result things can go wrong.
    • Private Client: This area of law deals with Wills, administration of Estates, Probate and advising on Inheritance Tax. Again, a very specialised area of law which takes a lot of time and training to become versed in.

    These are just a few of the many areas of law to specialise in. The best way to choose the right area of law for you is to do your research, talk to solicitors in different fields, and shadow solicitors to get a sense of what their work is like. With careful planning and consideration, you can choose an area of law that you’ll be passionate about and that will set you up for a successful career.

    Here are some additional tips for deciding what area of law to specialise in:

    • Take advantage of your law school resources. Many law schools offer courses and clinics in different areas of law. This is a great way to explore different fields and see what you’re interested in.
    • Talk to solicitors or friends in different fields. Ask solicitors and friends you have qualified (or are in the same boat as you) about their work, their career paths, and their jobs. This can give you valuable insights into different areas of law.
    • Shadow solicitors. This is a great way to get a firsthand look at what solicitors do in different fields. You could do this in the summer with schemes that run during this time or look for a week here and week there during breaks to get a feel.
    • Do your research. Read books and articles about different areas of law. This will help you learn more about the subject matter and the career opportunities in each field.
    • Trust your gut. Ultimately, the best way to choose an area of law to practice in is to follow your gut. I have found this to be something to always do – believe me, trust yourself – you will know!
  • Tips to deal with coming back to work after a holiday.

    For me, a holiday is great and I love to cut work ties, relax and forget about clients and everything sitting on my desk. However, about two days before I know my break is coming to an end, I start to get that feeling! The slight dread and fear of what lies on my desk and in my email. Returning back after a long break can feel daunting, especially if you have a lot of work to catch up on. Having done it a few times, here are some things I’ve picked up.

    1. Schedule a buffer day.

    If you can, try to schedule a buffer day before you officially return to work. To me, this is a day where no meetings or calls are scheduled. It is a day which I can use to ease in, look through post, review colleagues notes on files and start to review emails. I can start to compile a to do list, schedule my diary and organise my desk. Trust me, if you can put in a buffer day, do it!

    2. Check in with your team.

    During the first day back, check in with those who were looking after your files and other members of your team. This will help you to get up to speed on what’s been happening while you were away and to identify any urgent tasks that need your attention.

    3. Prioritise your tasks.

    Once you know what needs to be done, it’s important to prioritise your tasks. This will help you to focus on the most important things and to avoid getting overwhelmed. It will also help you identify which clients need that urgent call back and which can wait a little bit longer.

    4. Set realistic expectations.

    It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself when you’re trying to get caught up on work after a holiday. Don’t try to do everything at once, or you’ll just end up feeling stressed and overwhelmed as well as making mistakes which you wouldn’t ordinarily make.

    5. Take breaks.

    Don’t be tempted to try to do everything at once and neglect coffee breaks or lunch. Believe me this does not help you, you end up not being able to concentrate, loosing focus and just not feeling great!

    6. Ask for help.

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your team members or your manager. Don’t be a martyr! Get help, you will get to return the favour when they go on leave.

    Also, some side notes;

    • Use a to-do list to keep track of your tasks.
    • Set deadlines for yourself and stick to them.
    • Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.
    • Take advantage of technology to help you stay organised.
    • Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others.

  • 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

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