Tag: tips

  • 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!

  • Working from Home: The Perks and Pitfalls for Solicitors

    Whilst the legal profession has traditionally been tied to the office environment, the rise of remote work has opened doors for solicitors seeking flexibility and a better work-life balance. But for all the appealing aspects of having a home base, as I’ve found out from my own experience and from that of colleagues, it’s crucial to remember that this working style comes with its own set of challenges.

    The Allure of Remote Work:

    • Flexibility: Working from home allows you to structure your day around your needs, potentially boosting productivity and reducing stress.
    • Reduced Commuting: As I am roughly an hours commute, each way, from the office it is great to not have to battle traffic! This translates to more time for work, relaxation, or family.
    • Cost Savings: Ditching the office means saving on commuting costs, professional attire, and potentially lunches.

    The Hidden Challenges:

    • Distractions: From barking dogs to the lure of the TV, distractions abound in the home environment. Maintaining focus can be a significant hurdle.
    • Isolation: Face-to-face interaction with colleagues and clients fosters collaboration and networking. Going remote may lead to feelings of isolation, hindering professional development.
    • Technology Dependence: A reliable internet connection and secure communication platforms are crucial for remote work. Technical issues can derail your workday and compromise client confidentiality.
    • Maintaining Boundaries: Blending work and personal life can be tricky. It’s crucial to set clear boundaries and stick to them to avoid burnout.
    • Ethical Considerations: Data security, client confidentiality, and adhering to professional conduct rules are paramount. Ensure you have the necessary safeguards in place before going remote.
    • Time Management: Tracking billable hours and managing your workload effectively can be challenging without the structure of an office environment.
    • Limited Career Progression: Some firms may offer fewer advancement opportunities for remote solicitors, so discuss career aspirations clearly with your employer.

    Navigating the Pitfalls:

    • Create a dedicated workspace: Having a designated area for work helps establish boundaries and minimize distractions.
    • Maintain communication: Be proactive in communicating with colleagues and clients, utilise collaboration tools,and schedule regular virtual meetings.
    • Invest in reliable technology: Ensure you have a secure internet connection, robust antivirus software, and cloud-based storage solutions.
    • Set clear boundaries: Establish firm work hours and stick to them. Communicate these boundaries to family and friends, and use tools like “Do Not Disturb” notifications.
    • Prioritise self-care: Schedule breaks, get regular exercise, and maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.
    • Stay organised: Develop a system for tracking billable hours, managing deadlines, and prioritising tasks.

    Ultimately, the decision to work remotely is a personal one. Weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully, discuss your plans with your employer, and ensure you have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in this unique working environment. Remember, open communication, self-discipline, and a clear understanding of the challenges involved are key to maximising your success as a remote solicitor.

    Personally, I was given the option to work from home and decided to do this for two days of the week, and stay office based for three which for me is the perfect balance, given everything I have said above. Off course, this will be personal to each of you but I have felt the benefits on having a more balanced work-life situation. Ultimately, do what feels right and works for you!

  • The Power of Doing Nothing: Why Creative People, like solicitors Need Downtime.

    I don’t think that it is stretching logic for me to say that solicitors are creative individuals. It is part of the job – we can come up with solutions to problems that our clients are having. It can be a fast-paced, achievement-oriented job and the idea of doing nothing is often met with skepticism and disapproval within firms or even by colleagues and those higher up in the company. We’re constantly bombarded with messages that tell us to be productive, to make the most of every minute, and to never stop striving for more. But in the midst of this relentless pursuit of productivity, we often overlook a crucial element for creativity: downtime!

    I agree with the above statement and believe that creative people, more than most, need time to just sit around and do nothing. This may seem counterintuitive, but periods of rest and idleness are essential for fostering innovation and generating new ideas. When we allow our minds to wander freely, we open ourselves up to unexpected connections and insights that might otherwise elude us. I have found that a lot of the solutions I have come up with for some quite complex scenarios came from just sitting and allowing my mind to wander in the direction that it wanted.

    So what what have I found personally and from research?

    1. Incubation Period: Creativity often doesn’t happen in a sudden burst of inspiration; it often involves an incubation period where ideas simmer and percolate in the subconscious mind. Downtime provides the space for this incubation to occur.
    2. Mental Recharge: Just like our physical bodies need rest to recover, our brains also need time to recharge. When we’re constantly engaged in focused mental activity, our cognitive resources become depleted. Downtime allows our brains to rest and replenish these resources, making us more mentally refreshed and receptive to new ideas.
    3. Mind-Wandering: Daydreaming and mind-wandering are often seen as distractions, but they can actually be powerful tools for creativity. When we let our minds wander, we make unexpected connections and associations that can lead to novel ideas.
    4. Perspective Shift: Stepping away from a problem or task can give us a fresh perspective and allow us to see it in a new light. Downtime provides the distance we need to break out of our habitual thinking patterns and generate innovative solutions.

    So, perhaps the next time you feel tempted to fill every moment with activity, remember that doing nothing can be just as productive. It is not always possible but take some time each day to simply relax, let your thoughts wander, maybe at your coffee break or lunch break – another reason why some time away from the desk is vital – never ignore your breaks!

  • Lacking Motivation? It happens! More often than you think!

    After the excitement of qualifying and shock of sudden responsibility one you get into the daily grind there can be days where you simply can lack the motivation to work, not because of anything particular, but for some reason, you open that file you have been working on and you find it difficult to get started or you find yourself just staring out the window not doing anything with a empty mind. I think this is a more common experience for people than is admitted. Having thought about this and spoken to other colleagues who have experienced the same thing, it can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, burnout, boredom, or even dissatisfaction with what you are doing. Whatever the cause, lack of motivation can make it difficult to focus, be productive, and achieve your goals for that day or even that week or month.

    Whenever I start to experience lack of motivation at work, there are a few things I have found that have helped me to get back on track. These may not work for you, but I though it was worth sharing them and maybe something will help someone:

    1. Identify the root cause. The first step is to try to figure out what’s causing your lack of motivation. Once you know the cause, you can start to work on addressing it. For example, if you’re feeling stressed or burned out, you may need to take some time for yourself to relax and recharge. If you’re bored or dissatisfied with your job, you may need to talk to your manager about taking on new challenges or finding a new role.
    2. Set realistic goals. When you’re feeling unmotivated, it’s important to set small, achievable goals for yourself. This will help you to feel a sense of accomplishment and build momentum. Start by breaking down your larger goals into smaller tasks. Then, set deadlines for yourself and stick to them.
    3. Take breaks. It’s important to take breaks throughout the workday, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air. Taking breaks will help you to stay focused and motivated.
    4. Reward yourself. When you achieve a goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help you to stay motivated and on track. Your reward can be anything from taking a break to do something you love to buying yourself a small gift.
    5. Talk to someone. If you’re struggling to deal with lack of motivation on your own, talk to a friend, family member, therapist, or coach. They can offer support and guidance.

    I have also found that it may be useful to consider doing some of the following:

    • Find a purpose. Think about what’s important to you and why you’re doing this work. Having a sense of purpose can help you to stay motivated, even when things are tough.
    • Set goals for yourself. What do you want to achieve in your career? Having specific goals in mind can help you to stay focused and motivated.
    • Break down large tasks into smaller ones. This will make them seem less daunting and more manageable.
    • Take breaks throughout the day. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air. Taking breaks will help you to stay focused and motivated.
    • Reward yourself for your accomplishments. This will help you to stay motivated and on track.
    • Surround yourself with positive people. People who are positive and supportive can help you to stay motivated and upbeat.

    I am not saying that any of these things will work for you, it will depend on you as a person, your role, the work you are doing, amongst other things. Personally, I have found some of these work well and have helped me to re-focus and get back on track. I am not saying that the days of no motivation will not come back, they do – from time to time – but I find I can, for the moment, find my way out.

  • Mental Health and Being a Solicitor – My Own Personal Experience.

    I have been a qualified solicitor for just over one year! I noticed an immediate change in how my work life changed – which was a shock and surprise I was not expecting. It was almost as if the safety net I had been working with was very suddenly and quickly removed and to an extent which was noticeable. There is not doubt that working in the legal sector, in whatever role, can be rewarding but is also a challenging career. However, it is also a profession that is known for its high levels of stress and anxiety. In fact, there are studies out there which show that over 70% of solicitors have experiences some kind of stress and/or anxiety connected with their job and role. This is very evident with the push of Law Societies in the UK pushing mental health and wellbeing services to the solicitors they serve. There is not a month which goes by, where I get an email promoting various options available to solicitors who are experiencing mental health issues or need someone to talk too about the issues they are experiencing with work and their mental health.

    Whether it is just that mental health is a more open issue which people feel comfortable with or that it is a major issue in society, I have found that there are a number of factors that can contribute to mental health problems in the legal sector, some of which I have experienced myself and feel we should all be aware off to try and address any potential issues which could be on the horizon before they become big problems. These include:

    • Long hours and heavy workloads. Solicitors are often expected to work long hours and meet tight deadlines. This can lead to stress, burnout, and exhaustion.
    • A competitive culture. The legal profession is highly competitive, and solicitors, in particular newly qualified and junior solicitors, often feel pressure to excel. This can lead to anxiety and self-doubt.
    • The nature of the work. Solicitors often deal with difficult and sensitive cases, which can be emotionally draining. They may also be exposed to trauma, which can lead to PTSD.
    • Lack of support. Some law firms do not offer adequate support to their employees, which can make it difficult for their solicitors to cope with mental health problems. Although, thankfully Law Societies are trying to address this.

    What can be done to improve mental health in the legal sector?

    There are a number of things that can be done to improve mental health in the legal sector. These include:

    • Promoting a healthy work-life balance. Law firms should encourage their employees to take breaks and time off, and to set realistic workloads.
    • Creating a supportive culture. Law firms should create a culture where solicitors feel comfortable talking about their mental health and seeking support.
    • Providing training and support. Law firms should provide training to their employees on mental health and stress management. They should also offer support services, such as employee assistance programs.

    What can solicitors do to protect their mental health?

    There are a number of things that lawyers can do to protect their mental health. These include:

    • Setting boundaries. It is important for solicitors to set boundaries between their work and personal lives. This means not working long hours every night and taking time for themselves to relax and recharge.
    • Taking breaks. Solicitorss should take regular breaks throughout the day, even if it is just for a few minutes. Getting up and moving around, or taking a few deep breaths, can help to reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
    • Talking to someone. If solicitors are feeling overwhelmed, they should talk to someone they trust, such as a friend, family member, or therapist. Talking about their problems can help them to feel better and develop coping mechanisms.

    Seeking professional help

    If you are a solicitor and you are struggling with your mental health, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand your mental health problems and develop coping mechanisms. They can also provide support and guidance.

    There are a number of organisations that offer support to solicitors with mental health problems. These include:

    • LawCare (UK)
    • Mental Health in Law (UK)

    Please remember that you are not alone. Many solicitors struggle with their mental health. If you are struggling, please reach out for help.

  • 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.
  • 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

  • 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!