Elin Davies,
Solicitor:
Cardiff in general has a really
good social scene. There are one or two bars in the city where
lawyer-types tend to hang out and Friday nights
invariably start off there straight from work. The
trainees and newly qualifieds from the firm get together on a
regular basis for meals and catch-ups. The firm also puts on events
every so often, ranging from parties to sports events. You
might even manage to blag an invite to the corporate box at the
Millennium Stadium on match day.
There is a very active South Wales
Trainee Solicitor Group in Cardiff - http://www.swjld.com/ .
Hugh James trainees have
traditionally been very active committee members. The group
regularly puts on events throughout the year. These provide a
great opportunity to expand your social network by mixing with
trainees from other firms.
Lousha Bryl,
Solicitor:
The firm is very good at rewarding
staff with social events such as the Christmas dinner dance, themed
summer party (2007 was ‘Western’ with a bucking bronco and saloon
shoot-out) and various dinners throughout the year e.g. after the
divisional conferences.
In addition to the events organised
for the entire firm, each department tends to organise its own
social events. At Christmas time you might find yourself attending
four or more different work parties particularly as a trainee when
you get invited to different departmental dos. On top of that, the
trainees have their own social committee which is supplemented by
the firm. I made such great friends with fellow trainees
during my training at Hugh James that we usually socialise on
an informal weekly basis whether it be a lunch or drinks at the
weekend.
James Gibson,
Solicitor:
On your first day at the firm, a
large group of partners take the trainees out for a drink to
welcome you to Hugh James and the start of your legal
career. That friendly approach carries on throughout your time
with the firm.
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