What is the first week as a Trainee Solicitor like? Here's Charles' Insight

When asked what the first week of my training contract was like, my initial (and candid) response is that it was a shock to the system. After three years of undergraduate law, immediately followed by a gruelling year of studying for the LPC, I used this summer to truly relax. Two months of not having got out of bed before 1pm would turn out to backfire, however, as nothing could have prepared me for the sound of my alarm at 6am on my first day of training.

Four years of studying culminated in this moment, and my life as a trainee solicitor had officially begun. I was excited to finally work on a legal scenario which did not contain the same default names used in the LPC’s hypothetical scenarios. I assumed that this would have to wait, however, and began my first day mildly dreading weeks full of induction tasks and coffee runs. I can gladly say that I was wrong.

My first day would be no gentle ease-in period. I had barely finished sitting down at my new desk when I was handed instructions to draft multiple contracts for one of the firm’s clients. I was left to take a proactive approach, taking time to figure things out on my own, however I was closely supported throughout the process by my training principal, and supervisor, whenever any problems arose.

I would soon discover that the first week would be much like this. I was given many more contracts to draft for various clients, and soon enough, I managed to get to grips with the process and learn quickly. Additionally, I was given other tasks, such as drafting settlement agreements and conducting research. This blend of independent work paired with close supervision really facilitated quick learning.

I must admit that I was mildly terrified upon discovering that my work was not merely being stored away in some forgotten file, but instead being used as actual work done by the firm. This level of responsibility from so early on was a pleasant surprise. 

During my first week of training, I was surprised at how many client meetings and interviews I was able to attend with my training principal. This invaluable exposure allowed me to see what this side of being a solicitor was like in the real world, preparing me for when I would eventually conduct these meetings myself.    Admittedly, I had enjoyed my fair share of going for meals with friends throughout the summer and was not fully prepared for all the times I had to cram myself into my suit jacket during the week.

In summary, the first week of my training contract was not what I had been expecting, but in the best way possible. The level of training offered was very full-on, and far more involved than what I had come to expect from a corporate and commercial practice. Although I have now managed to finally adapt my body-clock, I have no doubt that the next two years of training will continue to be challenging. I look forward to it.