Starting as a trainee in a law firm can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve spent years studying, passed rigorous exams, and now you’re finally stepping into the world of legal practice. However, instead of immediately drafting high-profile contracts or representing clients in court, you find yourself tasked with legal research, bundling, and other seemingly minor duties.
It’s easy to feel disheartened, but these tasks are far from insignificant. In fact, they are crucial stepping stones in your development as a solicitor. You probably know the phrase, “We all start somewhere…” well that is true. I and others have been in the same boat and it is a good way to learn and prove yourself. Consider the following thoughts:
1. Embrace Research as a Core Skill
Legal research is fundamental to being a successful solicitor. Whether you’re drafting advice, preparing for litigation, or reviewing contracts, you need to be adept at finding, analysing, and applying legal principles. When assigned a research task:
- Be methodical – Understand the question fully before diving in.
- Use reputable sources – Prioritise primary sources such as case law, legislation, and official commentary.
- Summarise effectively – Clear, concise research notes will be invaluable to both you and your supervisor.
Mastering research now will make you a more efficient and reliable solicitor in the future.
2. Understand the Purpose of ‘Minor’ Tasks
It’s tempting to see administrative tasks as beneath you, but these jobs serve an important function. Drafting attendance notes, bundling documents, and proofreading documents all develop attention to detail and organisation—key skills for any solicitor.
Additionally, these tasks offer insight into case progression and legal processes. By carefully reviewing documents and filings, you gain a deeper understanding of how the law is practically applied.
3. Ask Questions and Seek Feedback
Trainees are not expected to know everything, even seasoned solicitors do not know everything! When given a task, clarify expectations and ask about the bigger picture. Understanding how your work fits into the case or transaction makes the task more meaningful and helps you retain information.
After completing an assignment, seek feedback. Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth, and showing a willingness to learn demonstrates initiative and professionalism.
4. Go the Extra Mile
When conducting research, don’t just answer the immediate question—consider related legal issues that might be relevant. If you’re compiling a bundle, organise it in a way that makes it easy to navigate. Going beyond the bare minimum will make an impression on your master/trainor and help establish your reputation as a proactive trainee.
5. Stay Positive and Professional
Your attitude is just as important as your legal knowledge. A positive, eager-to-learn approach will be noticed by your supervisors. Law firms value trainees who are adaptable, hardworking, and engaged.
6. Recognise the Long-Term Benefits
As I said at the start, every solicitor starts somewhere. The partners and senior associates you admire once did the same research and admin tasks. These early experiences lay the groundwork for your future career. The ability to research quickly, draft precisely, and manage documents effectively will serve you throughout your legal journey.
Final Thoughts
Rather than seeing research and minor tasks as chores, view them as building blocks of your legal career. Approach each task with curiosity, diligence, and a desire to improve. By doing so, you’ll not only gain essential legal skills but also develop a strong reputation within your firm—an invaluable asset as you progress from trainee to qualified solicitor.
⚖️ Solicitor by day | 🚢 Cruising the seas and navigating the law | Sharing legal tips & travel tales | 📲 Follow my journey on Instagram | Threads | TikTok | BlueSky |