Reflections on the first 6 months of being a Trainee Solicitor at Everys

I joined Everys in April 2023 as a paralegal after completing my law degree and LPC.  I had worked as a paralegal for several years in Bristol before returning to Devon to obtain a training contract.

After an application process I was offered a training contract with Everys commencing in January 2024. 

For my first seat I was able to stay within the family team, gaining further knowledge and experience. 

I have previous experience of working within family law and love it.  It isn’t for everyone.  Litigation can be incredibly demanding.  Most work can be urgent, and you are working to strict deadlines.

Family law is also emotional for those going through it, and additional soft skills are needed to work in this area.  You may be dealing with people suffering with trauma and a loss of identity or a lack of control over their lives.  It is therefore important that you can understand this and have a non-judgemental supportive approach.

As part of my role as a trainee within the family team, I would draft documents, attend client meetings, speak to clients on the phone, book in new clients and attend court with counsel.  

Due to my previous experience, I was also able to manage some cases under strict supervision which really gave me insight as to what it is like working as a solicitor on a day to day basis.

Everys is very supportive of trainees being involved in our local community and building our contacts and network.  Fortunately, Everys run their own networking event – Work Together Get Together – which can be a gentle way for those starting their career to network as we are supported by our colleagues.  It has also enabled me to get to know others who work at Everys across the other offices.   Networking and growing your contacts is so important – it is never too early to start this.

I always say to others to think of the Training Contract as a 2-year interview. As much as you are making decisions about your future career and in what area of law you wish to work, it is likely that your firm are also deciding whether you are the right fit for them.  There may not be enough roles for all trainees to be taken on, so it is important to try and stand out. 

My tips for anyone thinking about applying for a training contract, or for anyone about to start one, are as follows:

• Try and gain legal experience if you can. I know this is tough, but whether it be through work experience, working in a paralegal/administrative role for a year or so before will help you gain knowledge about what it is like working in an office environment.  The practice of law is very different from the theory, particularly in litigation which is a fast-paced environment fuelled by emotion.

• Say yes to every opportunity. Fear can make us say no to opportunities but to grow you need to be out of your comfort zone.  This is where change happens.

• Be prepared to get ‘stuck in’.  No matter which team you are working with, you could be asked to do anything, and no task is too small. Remember that administrative tasks are just as important as legal ones. You could be asked to attend client meetings, draft correspondence, legal documents or even rescue a deceased’s cat!   All that is asked of you is that you give things a go and show willingness to try even when it may not be something you have done before.  You won’t learn if you don’t try. 

• Ask questions. The only silly questions are the ones you keep in your head.  Always ask when you are unsure.  Those around you will know that you are learning and will be willing to assist you where they can.

• Have self-belief. There is a reason that you have been offered a Training Contract.  Your employer will have seen your potential.  Whilst it can feel overwhelming at times, they will have trust in you and you should have it in yourself.

• Be organised. Being a Trainee is not easy.  There are many online tools to assist you.  You will need to be able to manage your time effectively, particularly if you are studying alongside your training contract.  You are going to be overwhelmed with tasks and information at times.  Take notes.  Do your research.   

• Be honest. If you are struggling speak to your training principle or HR or anyone else that can offer support. 

• Be committed. Depending on where you complete your Training Contract, you may be 1 of 10 or even 20 Trainees in your cohort. Do what you can to stand out and show your commitment and enthusiasm to the firm.

• Finally, enjoy it!  There are many people wishing they had a training contract – you’ve done it!  Take it all in and enjoy it – it’s going to be your career!