Tag: qualified

  • Dealing with Difficult Solicitors.

    There will always be that one solicitor on the other side, whether it is in a conveyancing transaction, litigation or something else, that will be hard to work with. It will seem they are deliberately trying to make things more difficult than they have to be and most of the issues they have raised are non-existent and nothing that needs to be debated about. Generally, the legal profession is in itself demanding and often an adversarial one, so it is one more added factor when you have to deal with difficult Solicitors, in particular, especially when it is in a high-pressure situation, and you are dealing with complex legal issues and often difficult clients. I should say that in most cases many of the solicitors I have worked with are professional and courteous, but there have been a couple of difficult ones.

    Dealing with difficult solicitors can be challenging, and believe me you will come across them sooner or later, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are a number of things that I have learnt going through this which I hope will help you too.

    Here are some tips for dealing with difficult solicitors:

    • Identify the source of the conflict. What is causing the difficulty? Is it a personality clash, a difference in working styles, or a disagreement over legal strategy? Sometimes it is because the solicitor on the other side is a lot more experienced and believe that their way is the best way and that know what is best. It is important, from your own perspective to try and think about what the issue is and use this to move on and realise that the issue is not with you and is entirely on them.
    • Communicate assertively. Stick with what you know and asset your position firmly with reasoning but in a polite manner. These emails are difficult and can take a few drafts but have confidence in your ability and your legal understanding. If needs be get a second opinion from someone in your own firm and get their take to make sure you are on the right track and take confidence from that and adjust your position accordingly. Don’t feel shame for being wrong or having to amend your position. We are all learning.
    • Listen actively. Try to understand the solicitor’s perspective. What might be motivating their behavior? Put yourself in their position, especially in a conveyancing transaction. Are they just trying to protect their client’s interests? Would you do the same if you were on the other side of the transaction?
    • Establish clear boundaries. In the very rare occasion that a solicitor crosses the line and actually is rude or unprofessional, call them out and make it clear that you will not accept that kind of behaviour.
    • Seek support from others. Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted colleagues or mentors for support and advice. Discussing the situation with others can help you gain perspective and develop effective strategies.
    • Prioritise your well-being. Remember to take care of yourself. If dealing with a difficult solicitor is causing you significant stress or anxiety, prioritise your mental health by taking breaks and seeking professional help if needed.

    Here are some additional tips for dealing with difficult solicitors:

    • Focus on the client’s best interests. Never let your personal feelings about the solicitor interfere with your duty to your client.
    • Document your interactions. Keep a record of your communications with the solicitor, especially if there are any disagreements or conflicts. This documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the issue to your supervisor or the Law Society.

    Remember, dealing with difficult solicitors is a part of the job. But at the end of the day they are your colleagues and often things work out. Always seek help if you need it, never feel you are on your own or have to deal with things yourself.

  • 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.
  • A Client has asked for a discount – what do I say?

    For many, in particular if you work for larger firms, you will probably not have to deal with this question from client. Most likely, someone more senior or in accounts will deal with the billing of clients. However, if like me, you are in a smaller firm, and dealing with clients on a one to one basis, you may well be asked this question – one which by all accounts could and sometimes does send a shover down the spine! Not because it is a bad question, but just one where, as a solicitor working in a firm with set fees, there is not much I can do. But the more prevalent question is, why should I even consider a discount?

    Perhaps, at the start of my career, I sometimes felt bad about charging clients the fees that I was, especially for work which was maybe not as complicated as areas I was dealing with for other clients. But as time has went one, I have thought this over, and take a completely different view now. I am offering a service which by all accounts is one which is specialised and so why should I not charge for that? For the time and expertise that I bring to any client’s issue that I have working on. In addition, at the very start of the process, the client will receive a letter detailing and outlining the fees before any work is carried out. They are well aware of what the potential cost could be, as an estimate is provided, and yet when asking for a discount at the end of the matter, why then should it be considered?

    It is certainly a question which will come up from time to time, and one to not take personally or a reflection on you. So I try to remember the following when that dreaded email or call comes in.

    1. Stay calm and professional. It’s understandable to feel frustrated or annoyed when a client asks for a discount, but it’s important to stay calm and professional. Remember, your client is probably feeling stressed and anxious about their legal situation, so it’s important to be empathetic and understanding.
    2. Find out why the client is asking for a discount. There are a few reasons why a client might ask for a discount. They may be struggling financially, they may not be aware of the full cost of your services, or they may simply be trying to negotiate a better price. Once you understand the reason for the request, you can better address it. As I said before, most firms will send a letter at the very start of the process providing an estimate, therefore clients should have a good idea of the final cost. It is probably worth referring them back to this letter in a polite and gentle way.
    3. Explain your fees. With reference to any letter setting fees out at the start of the process, explain why the fees are what they are. Always be clear and transparent about your fees. Explain what factors go into determining the final cost, such as the complexity of the case and the time involved. If the client is still not satisfied, you can offer to break down your fees in more detail or refer them to someone more senior.
    4. Offer a compromise. If the client is still adamant about getting a discount, you can offer a compromise. For example, you could offer to waive your hourly rate for the first few hours of work, or you could agree to them paying over a number of weeks. This would be unusual, and the case will have to be referred to someone more senior who can authorise this. To be honest, I would try to stay away from this, but take advice from your supervisor and see what can be done.
    5. Be prepared to take further legal action. If the client is not willing to pay your full fee, you may need to consider taking further legal action. This is not an easy decision, but it’s important to protect your own financial interests. Again, this will be the decision of someone more senior, but may be the only course of action to get the costs incurred by the firm and to get paid for work done and undertaken in good faith.

    It’s important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best way to deal with a client who asks for a discount will vary depending on the specific circumstances. However, by following these tips, you can increase your chances of handling the situation in a professional and effective manner.

    Having said the above, some clients who have been with your firm for many years may qualify for some form of discount, so any rules the firm has on this could be referred to and applied in those cases.

  • 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!
  • 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.

  • 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.
    3. Prioritize and Delegate
    4. 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.
    5. Schedule Personal Time
    6. 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.
    7. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
    8. 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.
    9. Learn to Say No
    10. 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.
    11. Utilise Technology and Flexibility
    12. 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.
    13. Communicate with Your Firm or Supervisor
    14. 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?

    I suppose in my excitement to start this blog, and to get my first post up, I did not really go into much background on myself and the qualifications I have. Well I am a recently qualified solicitor (October 2022) having completed a degree in Law and Government Policy (LL.B) in 2003. After some time away from the legal world (as far as I could go), I return as a Legal Executive before being encouraged by my family and Partner in that Law firm to obtain my qualification through the LPC route, before it changed and evolved into the new SQE method. I did the LPC part time as I worked whilst simultaneously working and obtaining my two years qualifying work experience. I completed my LPC, and proceeded to do the Professional Skills Course (all through the University of Law) and finally got everything done by the end of summer 2022. It was quite a journey, with a few proverbial bumps here and there, but with the encouragement and support of my family, I got there. I still have to book into my graduation ceremony in London, but I can do that any time. It would be nice to attend and officially close that chapter of my life.

    I graduated into the Private client world, so Wills, administration of estates, Probate, Residential Conveyancing and I dabble in Civil Litigation.

    What do I want to do with this blog? I want to connect with other students who are going through this. Offer advice, support and help if needed. I want them to learn from my experiences and help them navigate the newly qualified “road.” This journey will be different for everyone, but I would love to be able to help someone avoid even one of the many mistakes I have made as I stepped into the legal world as a fully qualified solicitor.

    Connect with me on Twitter @LearningLawyer