Constructing the path to becoming a solicitor

Since studying Law at college I knew that I wanted to become a solicitor. Joining Blake Morgan as a paralegal in the Construction Team was the first step I took towards this after completing my LPC. Since becoming a part of the team, I have gained valuable insight into the firm, gained skills that will be valuable as a trainee solicitor and improved skills that I picked up throughout my studies.

Knowing that my next step would be to apply for a training contract, developing my client liaison skills was something that I knew would be necessary when the time came to apply. I therefore began to take on increased responsibility, undertaking tasks such as drafting and amending contracts for key clients and becoming one of the first points of contact for clients within my team.

Attending business development events and organising networking events gave me the opportunity to establish relationships with clients and new contacts within the construction industry. Client care is an essential element of any solicitor’s day to day role and taking part in all of these activities whilst working as a paralegal enabled me to demonstrate, throughout my application, my experience of client care with relevant examples to the firm. It also highlighted my development and allowed me to show the advanced responsibilities I have taken on throughout my time as a paralegal.

When the time came to fill in my application form, as an internal applicant, I was able to lean heavily on my experience within the firm. I already knew that I enjoyed working for Blake Morgan and I was in no doubt that I wanted to progress my legal career here. The process of filling out the form itself was a great way to evaluate all I had already achieved and to give me confidence in sending my application.

After being invited to interview for the training contract, I spent a lot of time reviewing my experience and practicing for the interview. I have been lucky to be part of such a supportive team within the firm who were able to give me useful tips and feedback which helped me to go into the interview feeling confident.

Since receiving the news that I will be commencing my training contract in September 2021, I have continued my work as a paralegal for the Construction Team. I ensure to get involved in as many new opportunities as possible to further develop and work on skills, which will assist me throughout. I look forward to taking on further responsibility as a trainee solicitor and experiencing different areas of law in practice.