Struggling to decide which area of law to practice in?
My answer is to get some work experience! I am a second-year law student with ambitions to qualify as a solicitor. What I haven’t found through studying, is specific fields of law I want to specialise in.
Fortunately, the work experience week at Fisher Jones Greenwood has changed that.
Having dealt with the firm from a client’s perspective, I already had a very positive impression prior to starting the work experience week. This did not change when I was warmly welcomed at reception on my first day.
Su the trainee coordinator gave me a structured timetable for the week ahead working across five different departments: Wills and Probate, Family law, Commercial Law, Commercial Property and Personal development/HR.
Monday- Wills and Probate
I was tasked with writing my own will and drafting an LPA. Within the hour I was shadowing James in a client meeting, which gave me fantastic insight. I was particularly impressed with the different skills of legal knowledge but also empathy towards the client regarding a very sensitive matter. A great start to the week.
Tuesday- Family law
This was an area of law I had reservations about prior to starting. I am pleased to say this completely changed by the end of the day. Simon who was the head of the busy team took the time to explain his long and varied career in law and why he had settled in the area he had, sharing copious amount of knowledge and stories too! I also had the opportunity to look at a sample financial case and drafting consent orders. Much to my surprise I thoroughly enjoyed family law.
Wednesday- Commercial
Ashton introduced me to the commercial team and gave me tasks of drafting a share purchase agreement alongside a disclosure letter and other ancillary documents. Ashton took the time to give me detailed feedback on what I had produced, giving me positive but also constructive feedback on areas I could improve. Prior to the week I was adamant that this was an area of law I would really enjoy. However, I had missed the client interaction of the previous two days.
Thursday- Commercial Property
I was also very excited to work within this department. Having an estate agency background many terms were familiar to me and made the drafting documents less daunting. Ellen welcomed me and introduced me to the department. Considering heads of terms and drafting a lease, it showed just how different commercial and residential property can be. It was great to listen to the department working together and sharing expertise. I did enjoy this area but still missed the client interaction.
Friday- Personal development/HR
The personal development day was very practical and useful for a law student looking to pursue a career as a solicitor. The mock interview gave an example of what would be expected within an interview for a paralegal, with feedback on how I did. I was given tips on what a law firm will look for from a CV and how to stand out from the competition. The support and feedback from Anthony were invaluable.
This week has not determined the exact area of law I want to specialise in, but what it has done has given me a very good idea and highlighted just how much I enjoy having client interaction. I had reserved judgements which have changed completely. Although it would be remiss of me to discount commercial law for example at this very early stage, it has made me reflect on where my skills and experiences are and what areas of law, they would be most transferrable to.
I would like to thank every staff member at FJG who all were very knowledgeable and approachable. Each member of staff took the time to answer any questions I had and offering advice and sharing experience wherever possible.
Robert Sizer