Doing work experience at a law firm may seem daunting at first; however, it is extremely beneficial if you are interested in law and want to secure employment in the legal industry. Just a week can offer valuable exposure to various areas of law such as commercial law, conveyancing and private client. It allows you to take a deep dive into each sector and discover which one aligns best with your interests and strengths.
What did I do on my work experience week?
During my time at the firm, I shadowed a conveyancing solicitor, assisted with marketing and compliance research, completed several tasks given to me about the different sectors of law, and gained a better understanding of how solicitors manage their caseloads. I also learned about the importance of confidentiality, professionalism, and attention to detail skills that are crucial in the legal field. The experience helped me develop my communication and teamwork skills, especially when engaging in conversations with solicitors. During the week I completed tasks where attention to detail was crucial to insure a positive outcome. For example, I drafted an LPA (Lasting power of attorney) where even the smallest mistake can get the LPA application rejected making the applicant go through the whole process again. I also looked at different property documents and did different tasks relevant to each document such as fill in information on different scenarios linking to the documents.
A Real-World Glimpse into Legal Practice
Being in a real-world environment and observing what solicitors do on a daily basis gave me a genuine insight into the realities of working in the legal industry. It allowed me to move beyond the theory taught in classrooms and actually see how legal principles are applied in practice. I was able to understand the structure, pace, and expectations of a functioning law firm. I also began to appreciate the importance of time management, accuracy, and professional communication-skills that are vital in this field. This exposure helped me realise that while the legal profession can be demanding, it is also highly rewarding for those who are passionate, detail-oriented, and committed to helping others navigate complex legal matters. During my work experience week, I shadowed Tara, a conveyancing apprentice at Attwells and she let me take a look into a typical day in her life as a property apprentice. She explained to me what she was doing each step of the way and allowed me to understand and see the process a conveyancer goes through each day.
How to Prepare for work experience?
Preparing for work experience at a law firm involves more than just showing up, it’s about getting the most out of the opportunity. Start by researching the firm: learn about its areas of practice, its background, and its overall reputation. Understanding the basics of legal terminology and key areas of law, such as the declaration of trust or LPA’s, can also be helpful. Make sure to dress professionally and arrive on time each day to show respect and commitment and don’t be afraid to ask questions when you don’t understand something. Finally, be polite, stay organised, and show a willingness to communicate and engage with what’s happening around you. The more engaged and proactive you are, the more you’ll gain from the experience and the better impression you’ll leave behind.
My opinion
Overall, my work experience confirmed my interest in pursuing a legal career and gave me a clearer idea of the academic and professional path required to get there. I would highly recommend work experience to anyone considering law, as it bridges the gap between theory and practice, and helps you build confidence in a real-world environment.
