Tracey Singlehurst- Ward , Solicitor:
The departments are accustomed to
the seat rotation system and each department was at ease welcoming
me into the work environment and introducing me to the new subject
during my training.
There is a steep learning curve in
all departments and although you may begin by sitting in on client
meetings, this progresses swiftly to conducting meetings on your
own and sometimes carrying out the majority of the case management
on a file under supervision.
Trainees are given a high level of
client and partner contact and soon become an integral part of the
team. The amount of responsibility you take on is reviewed
with you on a regular basis both formally and informally. The
opportunities are there for you to take on a great deal of
responsibility if you show you are capable and ready for the
challenge.
Lousha Bryl, Solicitor:
Hugh James is careful to ensure
that trainees can handle their delegated work whilst gradually
increasing responsibility over the two year period. During my
training I worked closely with all my supervisors and as a
result they monitored and controlled the level of
responsibility and type of work that had been passed my way.
My involvement in each of my
three seats was valued. I felt like an integral part of
each team. We would have formal appraisals every three months
but due to the close working relationship with supervisors, my work
and progress was constantly appraised.
Elin Davies, Solicitor:
You will get as much responsibility
as you show you are willing and able to take on.
If you go the extra mile
you will ensure yourself quality work. In the
volume departments you get to run your own case load and from that
point of view they are very good seats to have.
Most of the time you will be given
work from a number of fee earners, mainly partners, which means you
get to know key people in the firm very quickly. On the
flip-side there are certain ‘trainee duties’ which you cannot get
away from but I never felt chained to the photocopier. In
most seats you are given access to good support staff
which is a real help when you are rushed off your feet.